Splatted Hammer Euphyllia Coral

Splatted Hammer Euphyllia Coral Care & Color Tips

The Splatted Hammer Euphyllia Coral is a standout LPS coral prized for its chunky hammer-shaped tentacles and dramatic splashes of color. Whether you’re building a euphyllia-dominated reef or adding a single centerpiece, this coral offers movement, texture, and serious visual impact.

Lighting & Placement for Splatted Hammer Euphyllia Coral

Getting placement and lighting right is the first step to keeping your Splatted Hammer Euphyllia Coral happy and inflated with full polyp extension.

  • Lighting: Moderate PAR (80–150) under LEDs, T5s, or hybrids works well. Too much light can cause bleaching or retraction.
  • Placement: Mid to lower areas of the rockwork are ideal, with room for the coral to expand without touching neighbors.
  • Acclimation: Start in slightly lower light and gradually move the coral to its final position over 1–2 weeks.
  • Flow: Aim for gentle, indirect flow that keeps the tentacles swaying without folding over or blasting in one direction.

Tip: If the Splatted Hammer Euphyllia Coral is tightly withdrawn during the day, you may have too much light or too much flow.

Water Parameters & Feeding

Like other Euphyllia species, the Splatted Hammer Euphyllia Coral prefers stable, reef-safe parameters. Sudden swings are far more dangerous than slightly imperfect numbers.

  • Temperature: 77–79°F (25–26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.025–1.026 specific gravity
  • Alkalinity:
  • Calcium: 420–460 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
  • Nutrients: Low but detectable nitrate (5–15 ppm) and phosphate (0.03–0.1 ppm)

The Splatted Hammer Euphyllia Coral contains symbiotic zooxanthellae, but it also benefits from occasional feeding:

  • Target feed small meaty foods (mysis, finely chopped seafood) once or twice weekly.
  • Turn off flow briefly so the coral can capture food more easily.
  • Amino acid or coral food supplements can enhance coloration when used sparingly.

Compatibility, Growth, and Long-Term Care

With the right neighbors and some patience, your Splatted Hammer Euphyllia Coral can become a signature showpiece in the tank.

  • Sweeper tentacles: Euphyllia can extend long sweepers at night, so give at least 3–4 inches of space from other corals.
  • Tank mates: Peaceful fish and inverts are best. Avoid coral-nipping angels and aggressive clownfish that may host too roughly.
  • Growth pattern: Expect branching heads that slowly multiply under stable conditions and consistent feeding.
  • Maintenance: Regular testing, small weekly water changes, and clean, well-maintained filtration will support long-term health.

If you’re planning a euphyllia garden, consider pairing your Splatted Hammer Euphyllia Coral with torches and frogspawn that share similar care needs. For more coral care guides and stocking ideas, explore our soft coral care guide and our overview of LPS coral care basics. You can also learn how to plan a balanced reef system in our beginner reef tank setup guide.

With stable water, moderate light, and gentle flow, this coral will reward you with full, flowing polyps and the unique splatted pattern that makes it so sought after in the reef aquarium hobby.