Platygyra (often called “Maze Brain Coral”) is a tough, classic LPS that adds heavy texture and strong “maze” patterns to a reef tank. It’s generally hardy once settled, making it a great choice for hobbyists who want colour and structure without ultra-demanding care. Give it a stable spot and room to expand, and it will slowly encrust and thicken over time.
Lighting: Low to moderate light is ideal for most Platygyra. Too much intensity can lead to a tighter, less inflated look or paling, while too little can reduce colour and slow growth. Start it on the sandbed or lower rockwork and adjust slowly based on how it responds. Consistent lighting matters more than chasing high PAR with this coral.
Flow & placement: Provide low to moderate, indirect flow—enough to keep detritus from settling, but not so strong that tissue gets irritated. Place it where it won’t be knocked over and where debris won’t collect around the edges. Platygyra can extend sweeper tentacles (often at night), so leave a safe buffer zone from nearby corals to avoid stings and slow “warfare” over time.
Feeding & water quality: Platygyra will happily take occasional target feeds and often shows better growth and colour when fed 1–2× per week. Offer small meaty foods (mysis, finely chopped seafood) or LPS pellets and allow time for the coral to pull food in. Keep reef parameters stable—especially salinity and alkalinity—along with healthy calcium and magnesium for skeleton growth. Moderate nutrients and consistency will keep this coral inflated, colourful, and steadily growing.
