Euphyllia glabrescens
Euphyllia glabrescens, or Torch coral, is a branching LPS coral with long tentacles that move gracefully in the current. The tentacles end in round or slightly tapering tips, and the coloration varies between green, gold, yellow, purple, and various combinations.
As it grows, the Torch coral forms new coral heads at the ends of its branching calcareous skeleton. Its care requirements are similar to Hammer and Frogspawn corals, but it is often more aggressive.
Features
• Branching LPS coral
• Long tentacles that move in the current
• Forms new, separate coral heads as it grows
• Available in many vibrant color variations
• Can grow long sweeper tentacles and harm nearby corals
Care
Light: Low–moderate, approximately 50–150 PAR. Torch corals do not require strong lighting and can open well even in slightly subdued light. Acclimate new coral to stronger lighting gradually.
Flow: Moderate–strong and varied. Tentacles should move noticeably in the current, but continuous strong direct flow should be avoided. If tissue constantly presses against the skeleton, the flow is too strong.
Placement: Leave ample free space around the coral. Torch corals can grow long sweeper tentacles, whose stinging cells can harm other corals.
Feeding: Obtains much of its energy through photosynthetic symbiotic algae, but also benefits from direct feeding. Small pellets, mysis, and other protein-rich foods suitable for LPS corals are suitable for feeding. Torch coral does not always actively grab food as readily as many other LPS corals.
Recommended Water Parameters
Temperature: 24–26 °C
Salinity: 34–35 ppt
KH: 7–9 dKH
Calcium: 400–450 mg/l
Magnesium: 1250–1400 mg/l
Nitrate: 2–15 mg/l
Phosphate: 0.03–0.15 mg/l
pH: 8.0–8.4
Torch corals build a calcareous skeleton, so the stability of KH, calcium, and magnesium, in particular, is important. The stability of water parameters is more important than hitting exact target values.
Additional Information
Scientific Name: Euphyllia glabrescens
Coral Type: LPS
Growth Form: Branching
Origin: Indo-Pacific
Difficulty Level: Medium
Light: Low–moderate, approximately 50–150 PAR
Flow: Moderate–strong, varied
Aggressiveness: Strong