Lobophyllia Coral

Lobophyllia corals are a classic large-polyp stony coral, long appreciated in the reef aquarium hobby. Often called a "lobo" or "brain coral", these species are known for their large, fleshy polyps that inflate to hide the stony skeleton underneath. They are a member of the family Lobophylliidae, which includes other popular corals like Symphyllia and Micromussa.

In a home reef, a Lobophyllia's polyps will swell with water, creating a soft, pillow-like appearance. The surface can be smooth or have a textured, bumpy feel depending on the individual specimen. These corals are found in a huge range of colours and patterns, commonly showing shades of red, green, grey, orange, and brown, often with brightly contrasting colours between the outer polyp and the central mouths.

For best results, place your Lobophyllia on the sand bed or a low rock structure where it will receive low to moderate lighting, around 75-150 PAR. They prefer gentle, indirect water flow that is just strong enough to keep detritus from settling on their surface. While photosynthetic, they benefit from occasional target feeding with meaty foods like mysis shrimp or specialized LPS pellets. Maintain stable water parameters, including a calcium level of 420-440 ppm, alkalinity of 8-9 dKH, and magnesium around 1300-1400 ppm. It is important to give them space, as they can release long sweeper tentacles at night that will sting neighbouring corals.

Lobophyllia are generally slow-growing, making them a predictable and manageable addition to a mixed reef. Their preference for lower light and flow makes them an excellent choice for filling in floor space on the sand bed, away from the more demanding, light-hungry SPS corals that might occupy the upper regions of the rockwork. Just be mindful of their aggressive nature when planning your layout.

This is a WYSIWYG item, so you'll receive the exact specimen pictured.

We take livestock seriously. That's why we don't sell anything we wouldn't be comfortable putting in our own tank.

As we are direct from source, we import and sell direct to the public. This means you can buy with confidence knowing EMA prides itself on excellent handling and conditioning protocols.

Fish

All our fish held in a quarantine system for a minimum of 3 weeks. During this time, regular water changes are performed, and twice daily (or sometimes more) feedings are performed.

Copper is dosed and checked twice a day for ich and velvet.

During this treatment fish are given formalin baths for brooklynella and a minimum of 3 praziquantel doses is performed for flukes.

Coral

Our coral is quarantined for a minimum of 3 weeks, just like fish. During this time, regular water changes are performed, water testing done, and once a month a Fauna Marin ICP Total is performed.

Corals are inspected for pests/general health and are provided with a pest dip once a week for at least 3 weeks.

If we see signs of pests, the quarantine period is extended and/or additional dips are performed

If coral is bleached/unhealthy, it will remain in quarantine until healthy enough to sell.