
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Trachyphyllia geoffroyi
An LPS coral with large fleshy polyps placed on floor. Beautiful fluorescent red and green.
Trachyphyllia geoffroyi (family Trachyphylliidae), the open brain coral, is a free-living solitary LPS coral from sandy substrates and reef slopes of the Indo-Pacific. Unattached to rock, colonies rest directly on sand, their large fleshy polyps 5–20 cm across encasing a brain-shaped skeleton with vivid coloration in red, green, orange, pink, and multicolor patterns. The polyp expands dramatically at night in a feeding response. Low to moderate lighting (80–180 PAR) and very gentle indirect flow are ideal; placement on sand is mandatory, as contact with rock edges damages the soft tissue. Weekly target feeding with small shrimp or fish flesh noticeably enhances polyp inflation and color intensity. Relatively hardy and accessible, Trachyphyllia's extraordinary color range and distinctive free-living lifestyle make it a prized centrepiece in reef aquariums.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Trachyphyllia lives 10+ years.
The Trachyphyllia grows to 5-20cm.
The ideal water temperature for the Trachyphyllia is 24〜27℃.
Stable parameters (24–27°C, KH 8–10, Ca 400–420 ppm) are recommended.
Origin
sandy substrates and reef slopes of the Indo-Pacific
Lifespan
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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10+ years
Size
5-20cm
Temperature
24〜27℃
Photosynthesis, Liquid food
Low to moderate lighting (80-180 PAR) is ideal. Since it sits on the sand, choose a spot where light reaches the bottom.
Place it directly on the sand with gentle indirect flow. Contact with rock damages its tissue, so position it on sand away from rockwork.
Maintain 24-27C, KH 8-10 and Ca 400-420 ppm. It is relatively hardy and easy to keep, but avoid sudden parameter swings.
Feeding small shrimp or pieces of fish directly to the large polyp once or twice a week plumps it up and improves color. The best time is at night when it inflates and shows a feeding response.
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 Trachyphyllia is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Trachyphyllia is 10+ years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Trachyphyllia typically reaches 5-20cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Trachyphyllia feeds on: Photosynthesis, Liquid food. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Trachyphyllia varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026