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Datasheet
| Care Description | Euphyllia Frogspawn Corals have been a fixture in reef aquariums seemingly since the hobby began. Frogspawn corals have long multi tipped tentacles resembling a mass of frog eggs. 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 Torch coral. Please see below for additional care tips for frogspawn 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 Frogspawn Corals, a type of large polyp stony coral (LPS), are renowned for their long multi-tipped tentacles resembling a mass of frog eggs. They are a popular choice in reef aquariums due to their captivating swaying motion in the water, akin to their Euphyllia relatives like the Hammer coral and Torch coral. The Hybrid Frogspawn variety stands out with its multicolored tips, featuring hues of green and purple in a branching structure.
Demands and Hardiness (Setup)
Euphyllia divisa, including Frogspawn corals, require moderate to strong water movement for optimal health and aesthetic appeal. Their preference for swaying in the current makes adequate water flow essential. These corals can thrive under normal output fluorescents, with stronger lighting potentially enhancing their coloration. Maintaining water conditions within the ranges of KH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity of 1.023-1.026, and temperatures between 22.2-25.6°C is key to their well-being.
Lighting
For Hammers, Torches, and Frogspawn corals, including the Hybrid Frogspawn variety, low to moderate lighting levels are suitable. While they can adapt to normal output fluorescents, stronger lighting may bring out more vibrant colors in these corals. Observing their response to different lighting intensities can help optimize their growth and appearance.
Water Flow
Moderate to strong water movement is recommended for Euphyllia Frogspawn Corals. Providing sufficient water flow not only supports their health but also accentuates their characteristic swaying behavior, adding a visually dynamic element to the aquarium. Striking a balance in water flow intensity is crucial in maintaining these corals' well-being.
Feeding
Although Euphyllia such as Frogspawn primarily rely on photosynthesis through zooxanthellae, they can benefit from direct feeding. While they may not be aggressive feeders compared to other LPS corals, offering suitable food like Mysis Shrimp, small critters, and pellets in the 6 to 13mm range can supplement their nutritional needs. Dry pellet foods such as Sustainable Aquatics Hatchery Diet have shown promising results for feeding Euphyllia corals.
Propagation
Euphyllia corals, including Frogspawn, have been successfully propagated in captivity, with branching varieties showing more promise than wall varieties. Sustainable aquaculture practices have the potential to support a sustainable harvest of these corals over time. Additionally, an uncommon method of propagation known as Polyp Bailout, triggered by adverse tank conditions leading to programmed cell death (apoptosis) in stony corals, presents an intriguing aspect of their reproductive biology.
Localization & Habitat
Euphyllia corals like Frogspawn are indigenous to tropical waters across the Pacific region, commonly found in areas such as the Indo-Pacific islands of Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their natural habitat provides insights into the environmental conditions that support their growth and development within reef ecosystems.