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Acanthophyllia deshayesiana
LPS coral with single massive polyp. Vivid red, green, blue colors earn it the 'Meat Coral' nickname. Impressive when fleshy tissue inflates fully.
Acanthophyllia deshayesiana (family Lobophylliidae) is a large, solitary free-living LPS coral found on sandy substrates and reef slopes across the Indo-Pacific. Rather than attaching to rock, it rests on the sand and inflates its fleshy tissue dramatically at night or when feeding, reaching 15–25 cm across. It displays vivid reds, oranges, greens, and multicolor patterns prized in the reef aquarium hobby. It prefers low to moderate lighting and gentle indirect flow; strong direct current damages the tissue. Place it directly on the sand without fixing it, and avoid contact with rock. Target feeding once or twice weekly with small shrimp or seafood pieces enhances color and growth. If it remains overturned it will weaken, so keep it upright.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Acanthophyllia (Meat Coral) lives 10+ years.
The Acanthophyllia (Meat Coral) grows to 10-20cm (single polyp).
The ideal temperature for the Acanthophyllia (Meat Coral) is 24〜27℃.
Origin
sandy substrates and reef slopes of the Indo-Pacific
Lifespan
10+ years
Sources: AlgaeBarn: SPS/LPS care (PAR/flow) / AlgaeBarn: Water Parameters 101
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Scleractinia (Acanthophyllia deshayesiana, Lobophylliidae). CITES Appendix II.
Sources: DOC NZ / CITES-listed corals (Scleractinia spp. = App. II)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Size
10-20cm (single polyp)
Temperature
24〜27℃
Photosynthesis + chopped meaty food
It prefers low to moderate lighting. Since it is kept on the sand bed, adjust the lights so the bottom receives neither too much nor too little light.
Keep the water stable at around 24-27°C. To keep the large polyp tissue healthy, avoid sudden changes in water quality.
It weakens if left upside down, so check that it always stays upright. Contact with rock can also cause damage.
Weak indirect flow. Strong flow damages tissue
Feed chopped shrimp directly 1-2 times per week
Place half-buried in sand. Do not attach to rock
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Acanthophyllia (Meat Coral) is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Acanthophyllia (Meat Coral) is 10+ years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Acanthophyllia (Meat Coral) typically reaches 10-20cm (single polyp) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Acanthophyllia (Meat Coral) feeds on: Photosynthesis + chopped meaty food. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Acanthophyllia (Meat Coral) varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026