
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Trachyphyllia geoffroyi
LPS coral with brain-like skeletal ridges. Vivid reds, greens, and purples. Relatively easy to keep. Extends large feeding tentacles at night.
Brain corals are large-polyped stony corals whose surfaces bear intricate maze-like ridges and valleys resembling a human brain, belonging primarily to the families Faviidae and Merulinidae. Distributed across Indo-Pacific and Atlantic reefs, individual colonies grow extremely slowly and can live for centuries. Coloration is typically brown, green, or yellow, with fluorescent green specimens being particularly prized. In aquaria, they thrive under moderate lighting (150–250 PAR) with gentle indirect flow; strong direct light or current causes bleaching. They extend sweeper tentacles to sting neighboring corals, so adequate spacing within the tank is essential.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Brain Coral lives 10+ years.
The ideal temperature for the Brain Coral is 24〜27℃.
Origin
tropical coral reefs of the Indo-Pacific and Atlantic
Lifespan
10+ years
Temperature
24〜27℃
Photosynthesis + carnivorous (frozen brine/mysis shrimp)
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.
Stone coral order (Trachyphyllia geoffroyi, Merulinidae). 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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It prefers moderate lighting (150-250 PAR). Direct strong light causes fading, so avoid placing it right under a powerful lamp.
Low to moderate indirect flow suits it. Direct strong flow causes fading, so place it out of the pump's direct stream.
With the temperature held at 24-27°C and specific gravity at 1.025, it is fairly hardy and suits beginner to intermediate keepers.
Photosynthesis is primary, but feeding meaty foods such as frozen brine shrimp or mysis helps the polyps fill out.
Place directly on sand bed. More natural than on rock
Keep spacing from other corals — will sting with sweeper tentacles
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Brain Coral is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Brain Coral is 10+ years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Brain Coral feeds on: Photosynthesis + carnivorous (frozen brine/mysis shrimp). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Brain 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