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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, specifically the Teal Micro Torch (Euphyllia cristata), is a prominent fixture in reef aquariums, characterized by long tentacles tipped with ball-shaped structures. As a large polyp stony coral (LPS), it is highly favored in the hobby due to its graceful swaying motion in the water current. It shares similarities in growth patterns and care requirements with its Euphyllia relatives, namely the Hammer coral and Frogspawn coral.
Demands and Hardiness
Teal Micro Torch corals thrive in setups with moderate to strong water flow, as this movement not only benefits their health but also enhances their aesthetic appeal. The ability of these corals to sway elegantly in the current is a notable feature that aquarium enthusiasts appreciate.
Lighting
Unlike some other corals, Hammers, Torches, and Frogspawn corals do not demand high-intensity lighting. They can be housed under standard output fluorescents with ease. Although Torches may extend more effectively under subdued lighting conditions, they tend to exhibit more vibrant colors when exposed to stronger illumination.
Water Flow
Teal Micro Torch corals thrive in environments with moderate to strong water movement. The swaying motion induced by this flow not only promotes the coral's well-being but also adds to the visual appeal of the aquarium setup.
Feeding
While Euphyllia corals primarily rely on the products of their zooxanthellae, direct feeding can prove beneficial for their overall health. These corals, including Hammers, Torches, and Frogspawn, are not aggressive feeders compared to other LPS varieties. Finding suitable food sources may be challenging, but options like Sustainable Aquatics Hatchery Diet pellets have shown positive results in catering to the dietary needs of these corals.
Propagation
Euphyllia corals, including the Teal Micro Torch, are well-suited for captive propagation and aquaculture efforts. Branching varieties are particularly successful candidates for propagation compared to wall varieties. A sustainable harvest of these corals in captivity is achievable over time. Additionally, a less common method of propagation known as Polyp Bailout is observed in stressful tank conditions, where corals initiate a programmed cell death process to survive perceived threats.
Localization & Habitat
Euphyllia corals are prevalent in tropical waters across the Pacific region, with frequent harvesting from various Indo-Pacific islands such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their natural habitat consists of diverse marine ecosystems rich in biodiversity, contributing to their widespread distribution in reef environments.