
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Lobophyllia hemprichii
A lobophylliid LPS coral ranging widely across the Indo-Pacific. Fleshy polyps merge into valleys that give a brain-like relief, and green or red fluorescent forms are popular.
Lobophyllia hemprichii is a large-polyp stony coral of the family Lobophylliidae distributed widely across the Indo-West Pacific, from the Red Sea and East Africa to Australia, Japan and Fiji. Ehrenberg named it for Wilhelm Hemprich, the naturalist who with him was among the first to study Red Sea marine life. Septa run continuously to form valleys and the fleshy polyps fold over one another, creating a brain-like relief. Colour ranges through green, red and brown, and strongly fluorescent specimens are favoured for display. It prefers moderate lighting and low to moderate flow; direct current damages the fleshy tissue and should be avoided. It extends feeding tentacles at night, so offering minced fish or shrimp then promotes growth. As a scleractinian it falls under CITES Appendix II.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The ideal temperature for the Lobed Cactus Coral is 24〜27℃.
Origin
Indo-West Pacific (Red Sea, East Africa, Madagascar, Maldives, Australia, Japan, Fiji and elsewhere)
Temperature
24〜27℃
Photosynthesis via zooxanthellae plus meaty foods
Moderate LED lighting; acclimate gradually because strong light causes fading and tissue recession.
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: Lobophyllia hemprichii (Ehrenberg, 1834)
Synonyms: Caryophyllia cristata, Favites hemprichii, Lithodendron cristatum, Lobophyllia aspera, Lobophyllia costata var. brueggemanni, Lobophyllia costata var. cristata, Lobophyllia costata var. cytherea, Lobophyllia cristata
Authority databases: WoRMS
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Scleractinia (Lobophyllia hemprichii, 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.
Find listings for this species
Low to moderate flow. Avoid direct jets, which damage the fleshy tissue; place it on sand or low rock.
Keep 24-27 C with KH 7-12 and calcium 400-450 ppm, held stable.
It extends feeding tentacles at night; target-feeding minced fish or shrimp then promotes growth.
As a scleractinian it is CITES Appendix II.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Lobed Cactus Coral is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
Lobed Cactus Coral feeds on: Photosynthesis via zooxanthellae plus meaty foods. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Lobed Cactus Coral varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 16, 2026