Dark stem orange Tip A3

*Please Note Sold As Mini Colony 4 Head*

Torch Coral (Euphyllia glabrescens) is a popular LPS (Large Polyp Stony) coral known for its dramatic appearance and relatively straightforward care requirements. It’s valued for its vibrant colors and the way its tentacles move gracefully in the water. Here’s a comprehensive guide to its care and characteristics:

Description

• Appearance: Torch Coral is distinguished by its long, flowing tentacles that extend from a central base, resembling the flames of a torch. The tentacles are typically thick and fleshy with a bulbous tip, and they can come in a variety of colors, including green, yellow, purple, and brown. The coral often exhibits a stunning contrast between the base and the tips of the tentacles.

• Structure: The coral has a branching structure with multiple polyps extending outward from a common base or skeleton. Each polyp has a central mouth surrounded by the tentacles, which are responsible for capturing food and providing the coral with nutrients.

Care Requirements

1. Lighting:

   • Intensity: Prefers moderate to high lighting. Torch Coral can tolerate bright light, but it should be acclimated gradually to avoid stress or bleaching.
   • Type: LED or T5 fluorescent lighting is suitable. A balanced light spectrum that includes both blue and white light helps promote vibrant colors and healthy growth.

2. Water Flow:

   • Strength: Thrives in moderate to gentle water flow. Adequate water movement helps keep debris away from the coral and ensures it receives necessary nutrients without causing damage to its delicate tentacles.

3. Water Conditions:

   • Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature range of 72-78°F (22-26°C).
   • Salinity: Keep salinity between 1.023 and 1.025 specific gravity.
   • pH: Aim for a pH range of 8.1-8.4.
   • Calcium: Maintain calcium levels between 400-450 ppm.
   • Alkalinity: Keep alkalinity at 8-12 dKH.
   • Nitrates and Phosphates: Torch Coral is relatively tolerant of varying levels of nitrates and phosphates, but maintaining low levels can help prevent unwanted algae growth and support overall health.

4. Feeding:

   • Diet: Torch Coral primarily relies on photosynthesis but can benefit from supplemental feeding. It can capture small plankton and organic particles from the water. Providing finely chopped meaty foods, such as brine shrimp or mysis shrimp, or specialized coral foods can be beneficial.
   • Frequency: Feed once or twice a week, adjusting based on the coral’s response and overall tank conditions.

5. Placement:

   • Position: Place the coral in a stable location where it can receive moderate to high light. Ensure it has enough space to expand its tentacles without interference from other corals or tank inhabitants.

6. Maintenance:

   • Pruning: Regularly check for any dead or damaged polyps and remove them to prevent disease and maintain overall health.
   • Water Quality: Perform regular water changes (10-20% weekly) and monitor water parameters to keep the environment stable.

Additional Tips

• Compatibility: Torch Coral can be aggressive towards other corals due to its stinging tentacles. Provide adequate space between it and neighboring corals to prevent aggression and ensure it has room to grow.
• Propagation: Torch Coral can be propagated by fragmentation. Carefully cut a healthy branch or polyp and attach it to a new substrate or frag plug, ensuring it is secured until it attaches and begins to grow.

By providing the appropriate lighting, water flow, and care, your Torch Coral can thrive and become a striking focal point in your reef aquarium. Its unique appearance and flowing tentacles can add dynamic beauty and movement to your tank