Unveiling Diversity: Understanding SPS, LPS, and Soft Corals in Your Reef Tank

Creating a thriving reef tank is a journey into the diverse and captivating world of corals. As you navigate this marine tapestry, it's essential to discern between SPS (Small Polyp Stony), LPS (Large Polyp Stony), and Soft corals, each with unique characteristics, care requirements, and levels of expertise.

Small Polyp Stony Corals (SPS):

Genus examples: Acropora, Montipora, Pocillopora

SPS corals are known for their intricate skeletal structures and small polyps. These corals demand intense lighting and stable water conditions. Acroporas, with their branching structures, and Montiporas, displaying encrusting growth forms, are popular choices. Maintaining stable parameters, including alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium, is crucial for SPS success. SPS corals are considered challenging due to their sensitivity to water quality changes and the need for precise environmental conditions.

Growing SPS in Your Reef Tank:

• Lighting: Provide high-intensity lighting with a spectrum that supports photosynthesis.

• Water Flow: SPS corals benefit from robust and turbulent water flow.

• Parameters: Monitor and maintain stable parameters, especially alkalinity and calcium.

• Expertise Level: Advanced; requires experience in maintaining stable reef conditions.

Large Polyp Stony Corals (LPS):

Genus examples: Euphyllia, Favia, Trachyphyllia

LPS corals feature larger polyps and fleshy tissues, making them more robust than SPS corals. Euphyllia corals, including Torch and Hammer corals, are popular choices. They exhibit colorful tentacles and add a dynamic presence to reef tanks. LPS corals still require stable water parameters but are generally more forgiving than SPS corals.

Growing LPS in Your Reef Tank:

• Lighting: Moderate to high-intensity lighting is suitable for most LPS corals.

• Water Flow: Moderate water flow is generally adequate.

• Parameters: Maintain stable water conditions, with attention to calcium and alkalinity.

• Expertise Level: Intermediate; suitable for hobbyists with some reef-keeping experience.

Soft Corals:

Genus examples: Xenia, Sinularia, Sarcophyton

Soft corals boast flexible, fleshy structures and lack a hard skeleton. Their rhythmic pulsing, Xenia corals, and Sinularia displaying intricate shapes fall into this category. Soft corals are known for their adaptability and resilience, making them suitable for beginners.

Growing Soft Corals in Your Reef Tank:

• Lighting: Soft corals thrive under various lighting conditions, from low to moderate intensity.

• Water Flow: Gentle water flow is generally sufficient for most soft corals.

• Parameters: Maintain stable water conditions, but soft corals are forgiving of minor fluctuations.

• Expertise Level: Beginner to Intermediate; suitable for those new to reef-keeping.

Understanding the distinctions between SPS, LPS, and Soft corals is pivotal for creating a balanced and vibrant reef aquarium. As you explore the beauty of each category, tailor your tank to the specific needs of the corals you choose and embrace the diverse and enchanting world that unfolds within the glass walls of your home reef.