
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Meandrina meandrites
A round LPS coral with maze-like grooves. Similar to brain coral but with deeper grooves.
Maze coral (primarily Meandrina meandrites and related Platygyra species; family Merulinidae) is a collective term for brain corals characterized by their labyrinthine surface ridges and valleys that evoke the convolutions of a human brain. Found across Atlantic and Indo-Pacific reef systems, these corals form large hemispherical colonies colored in muted greens, browns, grays, and yellows, with the sculptural texture providing the primary visual appeal. Low to moderate lighting (80–200 PAR) and gentle to moderate flow are sufficient. Sweeper tentacles extend at night to defend territory, so adequate spacing from neighboring corals is important. Target feeding with mysis shrimp or copepods accelerates growth noticeably.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Maze Coral lives Decades.
Known for exceptional longevity in captivity, well-maintained maze corals can remain display centerpieces for decades.
The Maze Coral grows to 10-30cm.
The ideal water temperature for the Maze Coral is 24〜27℃.
Stable parameters (24–27°C, KH 8–10, Ca 400–430 ppm) support their slow but steady growth.
Origin
coral reefs of the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific
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.
Scleractinian order (Meandrina meandrites, Meandrinidae). 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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Lifespan
Decades
Size
10-30cm
Temperature
24〜27℃
Photosynthesis
Low to moderate lighting (80-200 PAR) suits it. Strong light is unnecessary, and it grows even in the middle or lower tank.
Provide low to moderate flow and secure it stably on live rock so it cannot topple. It extends sweeper tentacles to attack neighbors, so keep spacing from other corals.
Maintain 24-27C, KH 8-10 and Ca 400-430 ppm. It is hardy, but stable KH and Ca are essential for building its skeleton.
It relies mainly on photosynthesis, but feeding mysis shrimp or copepods helps promote growth. Feed when the polyps are open.
A very hardy, low-maintenance and long-lived coral. Growth is slow, but with proper care it develops into a large hemispherical colony over decades.
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Maze Coral is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Maze Coral is Decades. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Maze Coral typically reaches 10-30cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Maze Coral feeds on: Photosynthesis. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Maze 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