More info
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, specifically the Purple Gold Micro Torch (Euphyllia cristata), is a popular large polyp stony coral (LPS) known for its long tentacles tipped with a ball. This coral is favored in reef aquariums due to its mesmerizing swaying motion in the water current, resembling its Hammer and Frogspawn coral relatives.
Demands and Hardiness
Euphyllia corals, including Torch corals, require moderate to strong water flow for optimal health and aesthetics. They are not aggressive feeders like some other LPS corals, making finding suitable food sources a challenge. These corals benefit from direct feeding in addition to products from their zooxanthellae symbionts. They are relatively hardy in terms of care requirements.
Lighting
Torch corals such as Purple Gold Micro Torch can thrive under low to moderate lighting conditions in reef aquariums. While they can be kept under normal output fluorescents, stronger lighting may enhance their coloration and encourage more extension of their tentacles.
Water Flow
Moderate to strong water movement is recommended for Euphyllia corals, including Torch corals. This level of water flow not only promotes the health of the coral but also adds to their aesthetic appeal as they sway gracefully in the current.
Feeding
Euphyllia corals like the Purple Gold Micro Torch can be fed Mysis Shrimp, small critters, and pellets within a specific size range. While they primarily rely on zooxanthellae for nutrition, direct feeding with suitable food like Sustainable Aquatics Hatchery Diet can benefit their overall health, especially as they are known to be selective feeders.
Propagation
Euphyllia corals are commonly propagated in captivity, with branching varieties being more successful candidates for aquaculture compared to wall varieties. An alternative, less common method of propagation is Polyp Bailout, a stress response specific to certain stony corals like Euphyllias when facing unfavorable tank conditions.
Localization & Habitat
Euphyllia corals are distributed across tropical waters in the Pacific, commonly found in regions such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. They are harvested from various Indo-Pacific islands, showcasing a broad habitat range for these captivating stony corals.