
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Euphyllia cristata
A euphylliid LPS coral from shallow Indo-West Pacific reefs. Its short, densely packed tubular tentacles swell into clustered bunches, giving a more compact look than hammer or torch corals.
Euphyllia cristata is a euphylliid stony coral distributed widely through the tropical Indo-West Pacific, with a particularly strong presence around Indonesia. Despite the broad range it is less abundant than other Euphyllia species and is comparatively uncommon to find even within its range. It occurs mainly in shallow water from 1 to 35 metres. Its short tubular tentacles are densely packed and swell into grape-like bunches, so the colony stays compact rather than spreading like a hammer or torch coral. The skeleton is flabello-meandroid and colonies can be propagated by division. Care follows other Euphyllia: moderate lighting with low to moderate flow suits it, and strong direct current damages the tentacles. It extends sweeper tentacles that sting neighbouring corals, so ample spacing is essential.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The ideal temperature for the Grape Coral (Euphyllia Cristata) is 24〜27℃.
Origin
Tropical Indo-West Pacific (Indonesia, Philippines, Maldives; 1-35 m depth)
Temperature
24〜27℃
Photosynthesis via zooxanthellae plus zooplankton feeding
Moderate LED lighting; avoid excessive intensity, which causes bleaching of colour.
Sources: Wikipedia: Reef aquarium (water parameters) / AlgaeBarn: A Quick Guide to LPS and SPS / AlgaeBarn: LPS-Dominant Systems
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.
Accepted name: Euphyllia cristata Chevalier, 1971
Synonyms: Euphyllia (Euphyllia) cristata
Authority databases: WoRMS
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Scleractinia (Euphyllia cristata, Euphylliidae). 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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Low to moderate flow so the tentacles sway gently; direct jets damage them.
Keep 24-27 C with KH 7-12 and calcium 400-450 ppm, held stable.
Besides its zooxanthellae, weekly or twice-weekly zooplankton or pellet feeding improves growth and colour.
Sweeper tentacles sting neighbours, so leave ample space. As a scleractinian it is CITES Appendix II. The trade name grape coral is also applied to corals of other genera such as Plerogyra, so it does not identify the species on its own; check for the scientific name Euphyllia cristata.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Grape Coral (Euphyllia Cristata) is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
Grape Coral (Euphyllia Cristata) feeds on: Photosynthesis via zooxanthellae plus zooplankton feeding. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Grape Coral (Euphyllia Cristata) varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 16, 2026