LPS Corals
LPS stands for Large Polyp Stony, a group of corals characterized by large fleshy polyps that grow over a hard calcium carbonate skeleton. LPS corals are among the most popular corals in reef aquariums because they combine vibrant colors, dramatic feeding responses, and relatively forgiving care requirements compared to some other reef-building corals.
In natural reefs, LPS corals contribute to reef formation while also serving as important members of the reef ecosystem. Their larger polyps allow them to capture a wide range of food particles, making feeding a significant part of their nutritional strategy.
For many hobbyists, LPS corals provide an excellent opportunity to observe coral feeding behavior firsthand.
Why Are LPS Corals Important?
LPS corals play an important role in both reef ecosystems and reef aquariums.
They contribute to:
- Reef building
- Biodiversity
- Habitat creation
- Nutrient cycling
- Visual appeal within reef displays
Their combination of large fleshy tissue and skeletal growth makes them one of the most recognizable coral groups in the hobby.
What Makes LPS Corals Different?
The defining characteristic of LPS corals is their large, fleshy polyps.
Compared to SPS corals, LPS corals often display:
- Larger feeding tentacles
- More visible feeding responses
- Thick tissue structures
- Slower skeletal growth
- Larger food acceptance
Because their feeding structures are more visible, LPS corals often provide clear demonstrations of coral feeding behavior.
Common Types of LPS Corals
Popular LPS corals include:
- Hammer Corals
- Torch Corals
- Frogspawn Corals
- Acan Corals
- Blastomussa
- Favia
- Lobophyllia
- Trachyphyllia
- Duncan Corals
- Candy Cane Corals
Each species has unique care requirements, growth patterns, and feeding behaviors.
How Do LPS Corals Obtain Nutrition?
Like other corals, LPS corals use multiple nutritional pathways.
Photosynthesis
Zooxanthellae living within the coral tissue produce energy through photosynthesis.
Heterotrophic Feeding
LPS corals are often highly effective feeders and may consume:
- Zooplankton
- Copepods
- Marine snow
- Coral foods
- Suspended organic particles
Many species readily capture larger food particles than SPS corals.
This is one reason feeding is often closely associated with LPS coral care.
LPS Corals and Coral Nutrition
Nutrition plays an important role in supporting:
- Tissue growth
- Coloration
- Feeding responses
- Recovery
- Overall coral health
LPS corals utilize nutrients such as:
- Proteins
- Amino acids
- Fatty acids
- Vitamins
- Trace elements
to maintain their large fleshy tissues and support biological function.
While photosynthesis provides energy, feeding supplies many of the building blocks needed for long-term health.
LPS Corals and Feeding Responses
One of the reasons LPS corals are so popular is their often dramatic feeding responses.
When food is introduced into the aquarium, many LPS corals may display:
- Tentacle extension
- Tissue expansion
- Food capture behavior
- Increased polyp activity
These visible reactions help hobbyists better understand how corals interact with food and nutrients.
LPS Corals and Water Chemistry
Because LPS corals build calcium carbonate skeletons, they consume:
- Calcium
- Alkalinity
- Magnesium
to support skeletal growth.
Although many LPS corals are somewhat more forgiving than SPS corals, stable water chemistry remains important for long-term health and growth.
Consistency is often more important than chasing specific numbers.
Common Misconception: LPS Corals Only Need Feeding
Many hobbyists focus heavily on feeding LPS corals because of their visible feeding responses.
While feeding is important, LPS corals still depend heavily on:
- Photosynthesis
- Stable water chemistry
- Proper lighting
- Good flow
- Balanced nutrients
Feeding should be viewed as part of a complete care strategy rather than the sole driver of success.
LPS Corals and Coral Health
Healthy LPS corals often display:
- Full tissue expansion
- Strong coloration
- Feeding activity
- Consistent growth
- Stable tissue coverage
Because their tissues are large and highly visible, changes in condition are often easier to observe than in many SPS species.
The Bottom Line
LPS corals are Large Polyp Stony corals known for their fleshy tissues, visible feeding responses, and hard skeletons. While photosynthesis provides much of their energy, feeding plays an important role in supporting tissue growth, coloration, and overall health. By combining proper nutrition, stable water chemistry, and consistent husbandry, reef keepers can enjoy healthy and thriving LPS corals for years to come.
