Lobophyllia
Genus
An LPS coral with large fleshy polyps. Vivid red and green coloration makes it a tank centerpiece.

Fluorescence appearance


Coral fluorescent proteins are excited by blue/actinic light. Appearance differs greatly from under white light.
Names & Synonyms
- CommonLobophyllia
- Commonロボフィリア
Overview
Lobophyllia (family Lobophylliidae), commonly called lobo coral or lobed brain coral, forms large, fleshy colonies on Indo-Pacific reef flats and slopes. Adjacent polyps share a common wall, producing hemispherical to flattened colonies 10–30 cm in diameter, showcasing vivid colors of green, red, orange, pink, and brown—fluorescent specimens fetch premium prices in the collector trade. Moderate lighting (100–200 PAR) and gentle indirect flow prevent tissue damage while supporting photosynthesis. Stable parameters (24–27°C, KH 8–10, Ca 400–420 ppm) are important. Like many lobophylliids, Lobophyllia extends sweeper tentacles at night and can damage nearby corals. Weekly target feeding with meaty foods or pellets noticeably enhances growth and color saturation. Fragging by dividing the skeleton is effective and recovery is rapid. An approachable yet rewarding LPS suitable for intermediate reef 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—Medium light is optimal
- Flow—Prefers low flow
- Feeding—Large mouth allows direct feeding
- Notes—Hardy but avoid contact with other corals
Regulatory & Conservation
- CITES:
- Appendix II
- Notes:
- イシサンゴ目(Lobophyllia, Lobophylliidae)。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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