Introduction: Why Summer Coral Planning Matters

As summer temperatures rise, so do the challenges for reef tank stability—especially when it comes to heat-sensitive livestock. Whether you're a seasoned aquarist or a beginner looking to expand your coral collection, summer is the perfect time to add new color and life to your tank. But it’s also when you'll need to be extra cautious about heat spikes, power outages, and water parameter shifts.

This guide highlights the best corals to add this summer and provides practical advice for keeping your tank cool and your livestock happy.

Top 5 Corals for Summer Success

1. Jawbreaker Mushrooms

These collector favorites aren't just beautiful—they're also resilient. Jawbreakers handle slight temperature swings well, require minimal light, and add bold reds, oranges, and yellows to your tank. They’re slow growers, so they won’t overcrowd your reef.

Browse here: Jawbreaker Mushroom Selection

2. Zoanthids

Zoas are known for their hardiness and vibrant color options. They tolerate fluctuating conditions better than many other species, making them a go-to coral during hot months. As long as water flow and oxygenation are stable, they’ll keep growing and spreading.

Browse here: Zoanthid Selection

3. Candy Cane Coral

Candy Canes are an excellent beginner LPS coral that can tolerate summer conditions if lighting and flow are consistent. They’re also nighttime feeders, which gives them a unique edge in nutrient cycling during the longer daylight periods of summer.

Browse here: Candy Cane Coral Selection

4. Ricordea Mushrooms

This mushroom coral is heat-tolerant and loves moderate lighting. Ricordea are easy to place and offer stunning fluorescence under blues, making them popular choices for summer photo shoots and top-down tank shots.

Browse here: Ricordea Mushroom Selection

5. Green Star Polyps (GSP)

These fast-growing soft corals are perfect for covering rockwork and are extremely adaptable to different conditions. Just make sure to manage their growth, as they can overtake nearby corals if left unchecked.

Browse here: Green Star Polyp Selection

How to Keep Your Reef Cool in the Summer

1. Monitor Temperature Daily

Use a reliable digital thermometer and aim for a consistent range of 76–78°F. Temperatures above 82°F can stress or kill sensitive coral species.

2. Install Cooling Equipment

Use clip-on fans to evaporate heat from the water's surface. Consider a chiller for larger tanks or high-value coral collections. Also, keep your lights on a timer to reduce heat exposure during peak daytime hours.

3. Increase Surface Agitation and Oxygenation

Heat reduces oxygen levels. Direct your powerheads toward the surface, and consider using a bubbler or air stone during extreme heat waves.

4. Perform Smaller, More Frequent Water Changes

Smaller water changes every few days can help remove excess nutrients and gently bring down the temperature if it starts to creep too high.

5. Plan for Power Outages

Have a battery-powered air pump or backup generator on hand. Summer storms or power grid strain can knock out electricity without warning, endangering your tank.

Build Your Summer Reef with Confidence

Summer doesn’t have to be a risky time for coral lovers. With the right coral choices and a few precautions, your reef can stay healthy, stable, and more colorful than ever. Whether you're growing out jawbreaker mushrooms, zoanthids, or adding a field of ricordea, now is a great time to expand your underwater garden.