At Extreme Corals, our passion for the aquatic world drives us to offer enthusiasts an unparalleled selection of corals, each meticulously curated to add a touch of wonder to your reef tank. With a keen understanding of the distinct needs and functions of LPS corals and SPS corals, we recognize the importance of informed decision-making, especially for beginners venturing into this captivating hobby.

Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the vastness of our online coral collection, making us the premier destination for reef enthusiasts across the United States. Whether you're seeking the bold vibrancy of LPS corals or the delicate elegance of SPS corals, Extreme Corals is your gateway to a world of aquatic splendor.

Exploring LPS Corals:

LPS corals, distinguished by their robust, fleshy polyps and intricate calcium carbonate skeletons, command attention with their captivating presence. Here's a closer look at the care considerations and popular species within this category:

Nutrient Tolerance:

LPS corals exhibit a remarkable tolerance to elevated levels of nitrates and phosphates, courtesy of their larger polyps' ability to absorb ample nutrition from the surrounding environment. This inherent resilience makes them an ideal choice for reef enthusiasts seeking corals that thrive in a variety of tank conditions.

Lighting and Flow Preferences:

Flourishing under low to moderate lighting conditions and favoring gentle water flow, LPS corals are well-suited for beginners looking to establish their reef tanks. Providing adequate lighting and maintaining a gentle water flow regime is crucial for ensuring their optimal health and vibrancy.

Supplementation Needs

While LPS corals showcase a degree of resilience to fluctuating nutrient levels, supplementing with calcium and alkalinity can bolster their growth and vitality. Regular testing and supplementation routines are essential for maintaining the delicate balance of water chemistry within your reef ecosystem.

Feeding Regimens:

Certain varieties of LPS corals, such as Torch and Hammer corals, can benefit from targeted feedings with small meaty foods like mysis shrimp or zooplankton. This supplementary feeding regimen not only enhances their growth but also intensifies their coloration, adding an extra dimension of visual appeal to your reef tank.

Popular LPS Species:

Torch Coral (Euphyllia glabrescens):

Celebrated for its long, undulating tentacles that resemble a flickering torch, Torch corals are available in a spectrum of captivating colors. Thriving in environments with subdued to moderate lighting and gentle water flow, these majestic corals serve as stunning focal points in any reef setup.

Frogspawn Coral (Euphyllia divisa):

With its distinctive fleshy polyps resembling a frog's foot, Frogspawn corals captivate onlookers with their vibrant hues and intricate textures. Preferring setups with moderate lighting and water flow, these resilient corals are a popular choice among reef enthusiasts seeking enduring beauty

Hammer Coral (Euphyllia ancora):

Sporting hammer-shaped tentacles in a myriad of color variations, Hammer corals add a touch of whimsy to any reef tank. Thriving in environments with subdued to moderate lighting and gentle water flow, these enchanting corals infuse your aquatic landscape with unparalleled charm.

Brain Coral (Trachyphyllia geoffroyi):

Renowned for its convoluted polyps reminiscent of a brain's folds, Brain corals are a testament to nature's artistry. Exhibiting stunning colors and textures, these captivating corals prefer setups with low to moderate lighting and gentle to moderate water flow, making them a captivating addition to any reef ecosystem.

Exploring SPS Corals:

SPS corals, characterized by their delicate polyps and intricate growth patterns, offer a mesmerizing glimpse into the wonders of the underwater world. Here's a closer look at the care considerations and popular species within this category:

Demanding Environmental Requirements:

SPS corals demand precise environmental conditions to thrive, including high-intensity lighting, robust water flow, and stable levels of calcium, magnesium, and alkalinity. Maintaining optimal water parameters is paramount for ensuring their long-term health and vitality.

Rapid Growth Dynamics:

Renowned for their rapid growth rates, SPS corals exhibit an insatiable appetite for nutrients, branching out to absorb vital sustenance from the surrounding water. However, their voracious growth requires diligent monitoring and meticulous care to prevent overcrowding and maintain the structural integrity of your reef ecosystem.

Acclimation Sensitivity:

SPS corals are particularly sensitive to fluctuations in water chemistry, temperature, and lighting, necessitating a gradual acclimation process to mitigate stress and ensure successful integration into their new environment. Patience and vigilance are key when introducing SPS corals to your reef tank, allowing them to acclimate at their own pace.

Fragging Considerations:

Propagating SPS corals through fragging offers reef enthusiasts an opportunity to expand their coral colonies and share their passion with others. However, this delicate process requires precision and caution to ensure successful propagation without causing harm to the parent colony. Utilizing proper tools and techniques is essential for achieving optimal results while safeguarding the health of your coral inhabitants.

Popular SPS Species:

Acropora Coral:

Representing one of the most diverse genera of SPS corals, Acropora species captivate with their intricate growth forms and vibrant coloration. Thriving in environments with high-intensity lighting and robust water flow, these iconic corals are a favorite among experienced reef keepers seeking to push the boundaries of their aquatic landscapes.

Montipora Coral:

Available in a stunning array of colors and growth forms, Montipora corals offer versatility and resilience in the reef aquarium. Tolerant of fluctuating conditions, these adaptable corals can thrive across a spectrum of lighting and water flow setups, making them an ideal choice for reef enthusiasts of all experience levels.

Bird's Nest Coral (Seriatopora hystrix):

Named for its branch-like growth pattern reminiscent of a bird's nest, this hardy and adaptable coral species adds a touch of natural beauty to any reef tank. Thriving in environments with moderate lighting and water flow, Bird's Nest corals are well-suited for intermediate reef keepers seeking captivating additions to their aquatic landscapes.

New Insights:

For beginners embarking on their SPS coral journey, selecting beginner-friendly species can ease the transition and instill confidence in their ability to nurture these remarkable creatures. These corals boast stunning colors, rapid growth rates, and resilience to fluctuating tank conditions, making them an ideal starting point for aspiring reef enthusiasts. However, it's important to approach fragging with precision and caution, as this delicate process requires meticulous attention to detail and a steady hand.

Whether you're captivated by the vibrant allure of LPS corals or enamored with the intricate beauty of SPS corals, Extreme Corals is your trusted partner in navigating the diverse world of reef aquariums. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond offering a vast selection of corals to providing invaluable insights and guidance to empower you on your aquatic journey. By understanding the unique care requirements of each coral species and embracing the artistry of reef keeping, you can create a thriving aquatic ecosystem that captivates the senses and inspires wonder for years to come.

With Extreme Corals as your guide, the possibilities are as limitless as the ocean itself. Dive into a world of beauty and discovery, and let your imagination take flight in the boundless expanse of the aquatic realm.