Lobophyllia / Symphyllia
Lobophyllia spp. / Symphyllia spp.Species
Indo-Pacific corals with large, open flower-like polyps displaying vibrant coloration. Hardier species popular in marine displays. Suitable for intermediate aquarists with adequate water flow and moderate lighting.

Names & Synonyms
- CommonLobophyllia / Symphyllia
- Commonハナガタ・オオバナサンゴ
Overview
Hanagata/Lobophyllia corals (genera Lobophyllia and Symphyllia, family Lobophylliidae) are large-polyp stony (LPS) corals from Indo-Pacific reef slopes. Thick, large polyps cluster densely while forming brain-like or petal-like ridges, growing into dome-shaped to flat colonies. They display an extraordinary range of reds, greens, oranges, pinks, and multicolor patterns, with vivid fluorescent specimens highly valued by collectors. They are relatively easy to keep under low to moderate lighting and gentle flow. Use indirect flow that does not damage the polyps and avoid intense light. They attack neighbors with sweeper tentacles, so allow ample spacing. Feeding once or twice weekly with small seafood pieces or pellets improves color and growth. Hardy, quick to recover, and able to be fragged, they are popular LPS corals for beginner to intermediate keepers.
Care Specifications
| Type | LPS |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 24〜27℃ |
| Specific gravity | 1.023〜1.025 |
| Salinity | 33〜35 ppt |
| KH (carbonate hardness) | 8〜12 dKH |
| Calcium (Ca) | 400〜450 mg/L |
| Magnesium (Mg) | 1280〜1350 mg/L |
| Lighting | Medium |
| Water flow | Low |
| Placement | Bottom |
Care Points
- Lighting—Moderate LED for coloration
- Flow—Low; typically placed on the sandbed
- Water Quality—KH 8-11, Ca 400-450ppm
- Notes—Feeding aids growth; polyps expand at night
Regulatory & Conservation
- CITES:
- Appendix II
- Notes:
- イシサンゴ目(Lobophyllia / Symphyllia, Lobophylliidae)=オオバナサンゴ類。CITES 附属書II。
Sources
- AlgaeBarn: SPS/LPS care (PAR/flow)(careSpec)
- AlgaeBarn: Water Parameters 101(careSpec)
- DOC NZ / CITES-listed corals (Scleractinia spp. = App. II)(regulatory)
- Wikipedia(detail)
Related corals of the same type
AcanthastreaアカンサストレアlpsBeginnerAn LPS coral with metallic colors in large polyps. Australian specimens are popular as premium pieces.
Acan CoralアカンソフィリアlpsIntermediateAn LPS coral with rich colorful variations. Highly popular among collectors with many high-value specimens.
Acanthophyllia (Meat Coral)アカントフィリアlpsIntermediateLPS coral with single massive polyp. Vivid red, green, blue colors earn it the 'Meat Coral' nickname. Impressive when fleshy tissue inflates fully.
Acan LordアカンロードlpsIntermediateAn LPS coral with vivid multicolor patterns beautiful as jewels. Premium species popular among collectors.
AlveoporaアルベオポラlpsIntermediateAn LPS coral with long tentacles similar to Goniopora. Hardier and easier to keep than Goniopora.
War CoralウォーコーラルlpsBeginnerAn LPS coral with distinctive rugged appearance. Also called Favia, beautiful with fluorescent colors.Related care articles

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