Why was it reclassified from the former Symphyllia genus?

Advances in research on skeletal and genetic characteristics led to a taxonomic revision, and it is now classified under the genus Lobophyllia. That said, it is still commonly sold and referred to under the older name Symphyllia.

Can a beginner start keeping this coral?

This species is considered suited to intermediate keepers rather than complete beginners, as it benefits from some existing comfort with managing water quality and lighting. Building basic experience with other corals first is recommended.

Is this coral subject to CITES?

Symphyllia radians is not subject to CITES.

Is it safe to place near other corals?

As a fleshy-tissued LPS coral, it can extend its tentacles at night and touch nearby corals. It's safer to leave some spacing so it doesn't come into direct contact with its neighbors.

Why does coloring vary between individual colonies?

Individual coloring varies quite a bit, with some colonies showing a green base rimmed in red. Even within the same species, the environment it grew in and differences between individuals shape its overall appearance.

Symphyllia Radians (Lobophyllia radians)

Symphyllia radians, still widely known by its former genus name Symphyllia, is an LPS coral prized for its brain-like appearance: neighboring polyps share walls and form winding, meandering valleys across the colony's surface. It's one of the signature species of the former Symphyllia group, and colonies with a green base rimmed in red are especially sought after among hobbyists for their striking coloration. Because it suits intermediate keepers rather than complete beginners, it's best brought home once you already have some comfort managing water quality, lighting, and flow. Watching its polyps gradually spread and its colors develop is one of the quieter, more rewarding parts of keeping it.

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About Symphyllia Radians (Lobophyllia radians)

Symphyllia radians is an LPS coral with a brain-like ridged surface. Green colonies rimmed in red are popular; best suited to intermediate keepers. Learn its traits and care basics.

7 things to know before welcoming a Symphyllia Radians (Lobophyllia radians)

1Brain-like ridges
Because neighboring polyps grow while sharing shared walls, the skeleton develops winding, interconnected valleys that resemble the surface of a brain. The exact pattern and coloring of these valleys vary from colony to colony, so no two individuals look quite the same.
2Green-and-red coloring
Colonies with a green base and red-rimmed ridges are especially popular for display. Coloring varies noticeably between individuals, so it's worth looking closely at where and how the colors appear before choosing one.
3Mind the neighboring corals
As an LPS coral with fleshy tissue, it can extend its tentacles at night to sense its surroundings. Placing it too close to neighboring corals risks contact, so it's best to leave some spacing when arranging the tank.
4Intermediate-level water care
This coral is considered suitable for intermediate keepers, so having some experience keeping water quality, lighting, and flow reasonably stable will make it easier to care for. If you're new to coral keeping, building basic experience with a hardier species first is a reasonable approach.
5Moderate light and flow
Being a fleshy LPS coral, constant exposure to overly strong light or flow can stress its tissue. It helps to place it thoughtfully within the tank and fine-tune the position gradually while observing how its polyps open.
6Debris can collect in the valleys
The winding valleys on the skeleton's surface can trap leftover food and debris more easily than a smooth surface would. Maintaining moderate water flow to keep this debris from settling is one useful point for keeping the colony healthy.
7Acclimate gradually after arrival
Right after a change of environment, the tissue may contract or the polyps may stay closed for a while. It's important to acclimate water conditions and lighting gradually and patiently wait for it to settle and open up on its own timeline.

Frequently asked questions about Symphyllia Radians (Lobophyllia radians)

Q.Why was it reclassified from the former Symphyllia genus?: A.Advances in research on skeletal and genetic characteristics led to a taxonomic revision, and it is now classified under the genus Lobophyllia. That said, it is still commonly sold and referred to under the older name Symphyllia.
Q.Can a beginner start keeping this coral?: A.This species is considered suited to intermediate keepers rather than complete beginners, as it benefits from some existing comfort with managing water quality and lighting. Building basic experience with other corals first is recommended.
Q.Is this coral subject to CITES?: A.Symphyllia radians is not subject to CITES.
Q.Is it safe to place near other corals?: A.As a fleshy-tissued LPS coral, it can extend its tentacles at night and touch nearby corals. It's safer to leave some spacing so it doesn't come into direct contact with its neighbors.
Q.Why does coloring vary between individual colonies?: A.Individual coloring varies quite a bit, with some colonies showing a green base rimmed in red. Even within the same species, the environment it grew in and differences between individuals shape its overall appearance.