Coral Type Comparison: Soft, LPS & SPS

Corals are broadly classified into three categories: Soft Corals, LPS (Large Polyp Stony Corals), and SPS (Small Polyp Stony Corals). Each differs in care difficulty and required equipment, so choosing the right type for your experience level and setup is essential.

Soft Corals

These are flexible corals that lack a calcified skeleton.

Characteristics: - Adaptable to a wide range of water quality and lighting conditions, making them beginner-friendly - Relatively fast growth - Wide variety of shapes and colors - Some species are highly toxic, so compatibility with fish should be considered

Representative Species: Zoanthids, Leather Corals (Toadstool), Xenia, Mushroom Corals, Kenya Tree Coral

Care Difficulty: Low to Medium

LPS (Large Polyp Stony Coral)

These corals have a calcified skeleton with large polyps.

Characteristics: - Unique and visually striking shapes due to their skeletal structure - Require slightly better water quality management than soft corals - Many species capture food (copepods, brine shrimp, etc.) with their tentacles - Light requirements are similar to or slightly higher than soft corals

Representative Species: Open Brain Coral (Trachyphyllia), Chalice Coral, Hammer Coral (Euphyllia), Torch Coral, Bubble Coral

Care Difficulty: Medium

SPS (Small Polyp Stony Coral)

These corals have well-developed skeletons and microscopic polyps.

Characteristics: - Require high light, high flow, and stable water quality - Regular management of Ca (calcium), KH (carbonate hardness), and Mg (magnesium) is essential - Offer top-tier beauty in color and form - Higher price point; suited for intermediate to advanced hobbyists

Representative Species: Acropora, Montipora (Porites), Sinularia

Care Difficulty: High

Recommended Progression for Beginners

1. Start with soft corals to learn water quality management
2. Add LPS to gain coral husbandry experience
3. Once the tank is stable, try SPS

Find Corals on Bri-Choku

In the Coral category, you can purchase healthy frags and colonies directly from breeders. Choose from a wide selection ranging from beginner-friendly to advanced species.