Why Lobophyllia Brain Coral Is Great for Reef Tanks

Lobophyllia brain coral (often called “Lobo”) is a colorful, fleshy LPS coral that’s perfect for adding bold shapes and movement to a reef tank. It’s fairly forgiving, but it does best when you respect its space and feeding needs.

Place your Lobophyllia on the sand bed or a flat rock in the lower half of the tank. Avoid sharp rock edges that can cut its fleshy tissue. Give it moderate, indirect flow—enough to keep detritus off the skeleton, but not so strong that the polyps are pushed flat.

• Lighting: Low to moderate PAR (75–150). Too much light can cause bleaching or tissue recession.
• Flow: Gentle to moderate, random flow. No direct powerhead blast.
• Placement: At least 3–4 inches away from other corals to avoid stings.

Feeding, Care, and Growth Tips

Lobophyllia will survive on light and dissolved nutrients, but feeding boosts color and growth. Target feed 1–2 times per week after lights out, when feeder tentacles extend.

• Offer small meaty foods: mysis shrimp, finely chopped seafood, or quality LPS pellets.
• Turn off flow for 10–15 minutes so food stays on the coral.
• Do not overfeed—leftover food can foul water and attract pests.

Tip: If the coral isn’t extending tentacles, try feeding at the same time every night. Consistency often “trains” it to expect food.

Keep parameters stable: alkalinity 8–9.5 dKH, calcium 400–450 ppm, magnesium 1300–1400 ppm, and low but detectable nitrates and phosphates. Watch for tissue recession along the edges—this usually signals irritation, too much flow, or unstable parameters. Correct the cause early and your Lobophyllia brain coral will remain a fleshy, vibrant centerpiece for years.