Trachyphyllia Brain 1

Trachyphyllia Coral (Open Brain Coral)

Scientific Name: Trachyphyllia geoffroyi
Common Names: Open Brain Coral, Trachy Coral, Folded Brain Coral

🪸 Description

The Trachyphyllia, or Open Brain Coral, is a large-polyp stony (LPS) coral admired for its vivid colouration, plump fleshy tissue, and mesmerizing folds that give it a true “brain-like” appearance.
Colors can range from deep reds, greens, oranges, and purples, often with striking iridescent patterns under blue light.

Each coral is a single large polyp that expands beautifully when healthy, making it a true centerpiece for reef aquariums. Its soft, flowing movement under gentle current adds natural texture and motion to the tank.

⚙️ Care Level: Moderate

Trachyphyllia corals are fairly hardy once established but require stable water parameters and gentle handling. They are best suited to mature, nutrient-balanced systems.

💡 Lighting

• Low to Moderate (PAR 50–100)

• Too much light can cause bleaching or tissue recession.

• Prefers softer, indirect light and should be acclimated slowly to new lighting conditions.

🌊 Water Flow

• Low, gentle flow

• Prevents debris buildup without damaging or irritating the fleshy tissue.

• Avoid strong or direct current.

🧪 Water Parameters

🍤 Feeding

• Photosynthetic, but benefits from target feeding 1–2 times weekly.

• Offer Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or coral pellets when tentacles are extended (usually after lights out or when food is detected).

• Feeding helps enhance color, growth, and tissue fullness.

🪸 Placement

• Best placed on the sand bed or a flat, protected area of rock.

• Keep away from sharp rocks or aggressive corals to avoid tissue damage.

• Allow space for full expansion — a healthy Trachy can inflate to several times its skeleton size.

⚠️ Notes

• Sensitive to rapid changes in salinity or alkalinity.

• Avoid placing near stinging corals or in direct flow zones.

• Handle gently — the fleshy tissue tears easily if lifted by the polyp instead of the skeleton.