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Lobophyllia

Genus

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

Lobophyllia (Lobophyllia)
© Philippe BourjonCC BY-SA 4.0Source

Fluorescence appearance

Lobophyllia under white light
Under white light
Lobophyllia under blue light (fluorescence)
Under blue light (fluorescence)※AI-rendered image

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

TypeLPS
Temperature24〜27℃
Specific gravity1.023〜1.025
Salinity33〜35 ppt
KH (carbonate hardness)8〜12 dKH
Calcium (Ca)400〜450 mg/L
Magnesium (Mg)1280〜1350 mg/L
LightingMedium
Water flowLow
PlacementBottom

Care Points

  • LightingMedium light is optimal
  • FlowPrefers low flow
  • FeedingLarge mouth allows direct feeding
  • NotesHardy 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

Related corals of the same type

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