
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Lobophyllia radians
An LPS coral in which adjacent polyps share walls to form winding valleys that look like the surface of a brain. A representative of the former genus Symphyllia, prized for green or red valley margins.
Lobophyllia radians is a large-polyp stony coral of the family Lobophylliidae from Indo-West Pacific reefs. It was long treated as Symphyllia radians, but molecular revision moved it into Lobophyllia, and WoRMS lists Symphyllia radians and Symphyllia grandis among its synonyms. Colonies grow as domes in which adjacent polyps share walls to build winding, connected valleys, so the surface resembles the folds of a brain. Valley floors and ridges are often differently coloured, and forms such as green with red margins are favoured for display. Moderate lighting with low to moderate flow suits it, and strong direct current must not be aimed at the fleshy tissue. Because colonies are heavy, set them on sand or on stable low rock. As a scleractinian it falls under CITES Appendix II.
The ideal temperature for the Symphyllia Radians (Lobophyllia radians) is 24〜27℃.
Origin
Coral reefs of the Indo-West Pacific
Temperature
24〜27℃
Photosynthesis via zooxanthellae plus meaty foods
Moderate LED lighting; acclimate gradually since strong light causes fading.
Low to moderate flow. Colonies are heavy, so set them on sand or stable low rock.
Sources: Wikipedia: Reef aquarium (water parameters) / AlgaeBarn: A Quick Guide to LPS and SPS / WoRMS
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 radians (Milne Edwards & Haime, 1849)
Synonyms: Mussa crispa, Symphillia radians, Symphyllia grandis, Symphyllia radians
Authority databases: WoRMS
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Scleractinia (Lobophyllia radians, 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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Keep 24-27 C with KH 7-12 and calcium 400-450 ppm, held stable.
It extends feeding tentacles at night; lay minced fish or shrimp along the valleys.
Sediment settling in the valleys causes tissue recession. It is sometimes traded under the old genus name Symphyllia.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Symphyllia Radians (Lobophyllia radians) is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
Symphyllia Radians (Lobophyllia radians) feeds on: Photosynthesis via zooxanthellae plus meaty foods. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Symphyllia Radians (Lobophyllia radians) varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 16, 2026