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Datasheet
| Care Description | Euphyllia have been a fixture in reef aquariums seemingly since the hobby began. Torch corals have long tentacles tipped with a ball. This large polyp stony coral (LPS) is one of the most popular stony corals in the hobby because if the way it sways in the current. It is very similar in growth and care requirements to it Euphyllia cousins, the Hammer coral and the Frogspawn coral. Please see below for additional care tips for Torch corals. |
| Water Flow | Moderate to Strong |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.023-1.026 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
Euphyllia corals, including the Blacklight Torch (Euphyllia glabrescens), have been longstanding favorites in reef aquariums, known for their long tentacles ending in a spherical shape. Belonging to the Torch coral family, these large polyp stony corals (LPS) are highly sought after due to their elegant swaying movements in water currents. They closely resemble care requirements of their Euphyllia relatives, such as the Hammer coral and Frogspawn coral.
Demands and Hardiness
Euphyllia corals like the Blacklight Torch thrive in moderate to strong water flow, which not only benefits their health but also adds visual appeal as they dance in the current. These corals are relatively undemanding in terms of lighting, being able to do well under normal output fluorescents, though they may display enhanced coloration under stronger lighting conditions.
Lighting
Blacklight Torch corals, along with other Euphyllia species, have low lighting requirements compared to some other coral varieties. While they can adapt to standard lighting, they may exhibit more vibrant colors when placed under stronger illumination. Subdued lighting can prompt these corals to extend their tentacles more readily.
Water Flow
Moderate to strong water movement is recommended for Euphyllia corals like the Blacklight Torch. This type of coral is known for its graceful swaying motion in water currents, making adequate water flow vital for both its well-being and aesthetic appeal.
Feeding
Although Euphyllia corals largely rely on the products of their zooxanthellae, they can also benefit from direct feeding. While Hammers, Torches, and Frogspawn corals are not aggressive feeders compared to other LPS corals, they can be offered assorted foods like Mysis Shrimp, small pellets (6 to 13mm), and specialized coral diets like Sustainable Aquatics Hatchery Diet to supplement their nutritional needs.
Propagation
Euphyllia corals, including the Blacklight Torch, have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them excellent candidates for aquaculture. Branching varieties are particularly favorable for propagation compared to wall-type corals. In rare cases of unfavorable tank conditions, stony corals may engage in a stress response known as Polyp Bailout, a mechanism where corals sacrifice their connective tissue through a controlled cell death process called apoptosis.
Localization & Habitat
Euphyllia corals are commonly found across tropical waters of the Pacific, notably harvested from regions like Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their widespread distribution underscores their popularity and adaptability in both natural habitats and artificial reef environments.