LPS Corals General Information LPS corals are still classified as stony corals and belong to the order Scleractinia. LPS corals are distinguished from other corals by their calcareous skeleton or base. Like SPS corals, LPS corals require excellent water conditions, adequate lighting, and plenty of space in the reef aquarium. LPS corals also use stinging cells (nematocysts) to ward off predators and defend their habitat from other coral species. Some LPS coral species have tentacles that extend tens of centimeters at night. These tentacles strike neighboring corals, causing serious damage to some species. When cleaning the aquarium, avoid contact with LPS corals. Many aquarists have suffered allergic reactions caused by the sting of these tentacles. Also, avoid handling LPS corals by their polyps; this can cause serious harm to the animal. Hard corals reproduce both sexually, releasing eggs and sperm into the water, and asexually by budding from the mother colony. The most common reproduction system in aquariums is budding. Most LPS corals obtain nourishment from the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) that live within them. Corals and algae have a very special relationship. Corals receive nourishment and oxygen from the algae, while the algae receive carbon dioxide and nutrients from the corals. Hard corals benefit from the periodic administration of supplements such as calcium and strontium, which serve to grow and maintain the animal's health. Optimal conditions and feeding: Temperature: 24°C - 27°C KH: 6.5/11 PH: 8/8.4 Movement: medium Light: medium/low Food: Zooxanthellae/Light Aquarium: 200 Liter Difficulty: Not suitable for beginners
