Purple & Green Lobophyllia

Lobophyllia corals, often called "Lobed Brain Corals" or simply "Lobos," are a long-time favorite in the reef aquarium hobby. Valued for their large, fleshy polyps and wide range of colors, these corals are an excellent choice for hobbyists looking to add a robust and visually interesting Large Polyp Stony (LPS) coral to their system. They provide a unique texture and presence that few other corals can match.

This group of corals is known for its impressive size and structure. A Lobophyllia colony consists of multiple, individual round or meandroid polyps with fleshy tissue covering the skeleton. Colors can range from deep reds and oranges to vibrant greens, purples, and browns, often with contrasting colors between the outer flesh and the central oral discs. Their surface texture is typically smooth to slightly bumpy, and the polyps can inflate significantly with water, giving them a full, pillow-like appearance.

For best health, Lobophyllia corals should be placed on the sandbed or on lower rockwork in an area of low to moderate water flow. They do not require intense lighting and thrive in a PAR range of 75-150. Direct, high flow can cause the polyps to retract and may damage the tissue over time. While they derive nutrition from their symbiotic zooxanthellae, they are aggressive eaters and benefit greatly from direct target feeding one to two times a week. Small, meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or specialized LPS pellets are readily accepted. Maintain stable water parameters with calcium levels between 400-450 ppm, alkalinity at 8-12 dKH, and magnesium between 1300-1400 ppm. Be sure to provide at least 6 inches of space between a Lobophyllia and neighboring corals, as they can extend potent sweeper tentacles at night. Standard drip acclimation is recommended for a smooth transition into your aquarium.

A well-cared-for Lobophyllia can become a showpiece specimen in a mixed reef. Its hardy nature, combined with its substantial presence and wide array of colors, makes it a rewarding coral for both intermediate and experienced reef keepers looking to fill out the lower levels of their aquascape.

This is a WYSIWYG ("What You See Is What You Get") item. The photograph shows the exact coral you will receive.

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.