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Coral Encyclopedia — 74 Species Directory

Encyclopedia of popular coral species with care requirements, traits, and difficulty levels.

Showing 4 of 74 species

Elegance Coral

Catalaphyllia jardinei

Advanced

Beautiful LPS with long tentacles tipped in fluorescent colors. Placed on sand bed. Vivid fluorescence is the main attraction.

LPSFluorescentAdvanced

Fungia

Beginner

A unique LPS coral that can move independently. Disc-shaped body moves across sand bed.

FungiaMobileSolitary
Heliofungia (Long Tentacle Plate Coral)

Heliofungia (Long Tentacle Plate Coral)

Heliofungia actiniformis

Intermediate

Solitary LPS coral with long tentacles resembling anemones. Clownfish may host in it. Placed on sand — beautiful long tentacles swaying in current.

LPSLong tentaclesSand bed

Open Brain Coral

Trachyphyllia geoffroyi

Intermediate

LPS coral with vivid colors and large mouth. Kept on sand bed. Responds exceptionally well to feeding.

LPS coralSand bedFeeding essential

Coral FAQ

Can beginners keep corals?
Soft corals like zoanthids and star polyps are hardy and beginner-friendly. Start with resilient species and gradually work your way up to LPS and SPS corals.
How much do corals cost?
Zoanthid frags range from around 1,000-3,000 yen, LPS from 3,000-10,000 yen, and SPS Acropora species from 5,000-30,000+ yen depending on species and coloration.
What equipment is needed for coral keeping?
Basic equipment includes a tank, LED lighting, protein skimmer, circulation pump, heater, and refractometer. For SPS corals, you'll also need a calcium reactor and high-performance lighting.
What should I check when buying corals?
Ensure the coral has vivid coloration without bleaching, polyps are fully extended, and the base is firmly attached. Also watch for shipping damage.
How long do corals live?
With proper care, corals can live for decades. In the wild, some colonies survive for hundreds of years. Water quality management and proper lighting and flow are key to longevity.