Coral Care Info Torch

Torch Coral (Euphyllia glabrescens) is one of the most sought-after large polyp stony corals, known for its long, flowing tentacles and vibrant coloration. Its movement and striking appearance make it a centerpiece coral in many reef aquariums. Torch corals are more aggressive than other Euphyllia species and require careful placement, stable water conditions, and moderate flow to thrive long term.

Care Requirements

Lighting (PAR Range)

• Torch corals typically do best in 80-150 PAR.
• Moderate lighting supports strong coloration and healthy extension.
• Too much light can cause bleaching or stress.
• Always acclimate new specimens slowly, especially those from new arrival corals.

Flow

• Moderate, indirect flow is ideal.
• Flow should create a gentle, swaying motion of the tentacles.
• Strong direct flow can damage tissue and prevent full extension.
• Too little flow may allow debris to settle on the coral.

Placement

• Best placed in the middle areas of the aquarium.
• Provide enough space for full extension and movement.
• Keep distance from other corals due to long sweeper tentacles.
• Placement is critical in tanks with small polyp stonies corals, which can be damaged by contact.

Aggression

• Highly aggressive coral.
• Extends long sweeper tentacles that can sting nearby corals.
• More aggressive than Hammer and Frogspawn corals.
• Requires generous spacing in mixed reef tanks.

Growth Rate

• Moderate growth rate under stable conditions.
• Branching varieties grow faster than wall types.
• Can develop into multi-head colonies over time.
• Stable alkalinity and calcium levels support growth.

Feeding

Torch corals benefit from occasional feeding, although they rely primarily on photosynthesis. Feeding can improve growth and overall health when done correctly. Newly introduced specimens from newest corals should be allowed to settle before beginning a feeding routine.

• Feed meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or coral-specific foods.
• Feeding once or twice per week is typically sufficient.
• Avoid overfeeding to maintain stable water quality.

Tank Compatibility

Torch corals are commonly kept in mixed reef aquariums but require careful placement due to their strong aggression. They can sometimes coexist with other Euphyllia, but space is still necessary. In tanks that include soft corals or spreading species like zoanthids, maintaining distance is essential to prevent stinging and damage.

• Avoid placing near delicate or non-aggressive corals.
• Allow significant space for sweeper tentacles.
• Compatible with most reef-safe fish and invertebrates.

Common Problems

• Tissue recession caused by unstable parameters or excessive flow.
• Brown jelly disease, which can spread quickly if untreated.
• Bleaching from excessive light exposure.
• Damage from nearby aggressive corals.

Tips for Success

• Maintain stable alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium levels.
• Provide moderate flow that allows gentle movement.
• Acclimate slowly to lighting changes.
• Give extra space to prevent aggression issues.
• Monitor polyp extension regularly as a health indicator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Torch coral aggressive?
Yes, Torch corals are highly aggressive and can extend long sweeper tentacles that sting nearby corals.

Can Torch coral live with other Euphyllia?
In some cases, they can coexist, but Torch corals are often more aggressive and should be spaced carefully.

How fast does Torch coral grow?
Torch corals have a moderate growth rate, with branching varieties growing faster than wall types.

Do Torch corals need to be fed?
They can survive on light alone, but supplemental feeding can improve growth and overall health.

Torch corals are a stunning addition to reef aquariums, offering unmatched movement and vibrant color that makes them a true centerpiece. With proper care and spacing, they can thrive and grow into impressive colonies. You can explore similar species in our large polyp stonies corals collection, browse larger specimens in our new arrival coral colonies, discover standout pieces in our featured corals, learn about our systems on our facility page, and stay updated through the Extreme Corals news and updates blog.