Marine/Reef · Large-Polyp Stony Coral (Starter)
LPS Coral Care Guide: A Moderate Beginner's Setup
A comprehensive guide for moderate beginners setting up their first LPS coral aquarium. Learn optimal lighting, water parameters, and feeding techniques.
LPS corals are a beautiful addition to any reef tank, but they require careful management to thrive. Before bringing home your new coral, ensure you have the proper environment: a minimum 30-gallon tank with mature biological filtration and stable water chemistry is essential for their long-term health.
Lighting is critical for LPS corals. They need intense, focused light to photosynthesize effectively. Aim for 150-200 PAR at the base of your coral using high-intensity LED or T5 lighting. Avoid direct beam lights that can cause burning; instead, use a wide-angle spread and position the light source 8-12 inches above the coral.
Water parameters must be meticulously maintained. LPS corals thrive in slightly alkaline conditions: pH 8.1-8.4, with precise calcium (400-500 ppm) and magnesium (1200-1350 ppm) levels. Regular water changes of 10-15% every week will help prevent accumulation of toxins and maintain optimal chemistry.
Temperature control is crucial for LPS corals. They naturally inhabit warm, shallow waters: target a temperature range of 78-82°F (25-28°C). Avoid sudden changes—gradual adjustments of 0.5°F per day are safer than rapid shifts that can cause stress and disease.
Humidity levels should mimic their natural environment: maintain relative humidity between 50-70% in the aquarium area to prevent water evaporation and reduce stress on your coral.
Nutrient supplementation is vital for LPS corals. Use a balanced reef supplement (1-2 times weekly) that includes essential elements like iodine, strontium, and trace minerals. These micronutrients support healthy growth and coloration.
Feeding strategy involves providing high-quality, nutrient-dense foods. Offer frozen meaty prey 2-3 times per week, such as brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, or small fish flesh. Target food items that are roughly 1/4 to 1/2 the coral's polyp diameter—this prevents overfeeding and promotes natural feeding behavior.
Handling LPS corals requires extreme caution due to their delicate tissue. Never touch or handle your coral directly; instead, use a soft-bristled brush or gentle water current manipulation. Most species are sensitive to human contact and can easily become stressed or damaged.