Softies vs LPS vs SPS: What Corals Are Right for Your Reef Tank?
Starting a reef tank is exciting, but choosing the right corals for your system can make or break your long-term success. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the three main categories of corals: soft corals, LPS (Large Polyp Stony) corals, and SPS (Small Polyp Stony) corals. You'll learn about their general care requirements, ideal tank conditions, and what to expect as you grow your reefing skills.
While these categories provide a helpful framework, it’s important to note that not all corals follow the rules. Some soft corals can be surprisingly finicky, and certain LPS or SPS species may be more forgiving than expected. Think of this as a starting point to help you make informed decisions for your current tank or future build.
Soft Corals: Beginner-Friendly and Budget-Conscious
Best For: New Hobbyists, Smaller Budgets, and Nutrient-Rich Tanks
Soft corals like zoanthids, leather corals, mushrooms, and star polyps are often the first choice for beginners, and for good reason. These corals are hardy, forgiving, and generally low-maintenance. They tolerate fluctuations in water quality and thrive in tanks with higher nutrient levels, making them a great match for less stable or newer systems.
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Tips:
- Avoid overstocking fast-growing species in nano tanks
- Place aggressive growers like Xenia or Star Polyps on rock islands to contain their growth
Green Star Polyps - Soft Coral
Ricordea Mushroom - Soft CoralLPS Corals: A Step Up in Color and Complexity
Best For: Intermediate Reefers with Stable Systems
Once you've had success with soft corals, the next step for many hobbyists is LPS corals such as torch corals, trumpets, Favia, and bubble corals. These offer vibrant colors and unique shapes, but require a bit more attention to water parameters and overall stability.
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Tips:
- Start with affordable and forgiving options like trumpets before investing in high-end pieces
- Begin dosing once water changes no longer maintain stable parameters
- Moderate flow is ideal; too much flow can damage tissue
Trumpet Coral - LPS (Large Polyp Stony) Coral
Hammer Coral - LPS (Large Polyp Stony) CoralSPS Corals: The Ultimate Challenge and Reward
Best For: Experienced Reefers Looking for a Rewarding Challenge
SPS corals like Acropora and Montipora are the top tier of coral keeping for many aquarists. SPS are beautiful and diverse but also require the most stable and controlled environment. They are ideal for reefers who enjoy fine-tuning systems and maintaining tight control over water chemistry.
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Tips:
- Only attempt SPS once you’ve mastered dosing, testing, and nutrient export
- Don’t overpack your tank with small frags; give them space to grow
- Plan ahead for trimming and coral warfare as colonies mature
SPS (Small Polyp Stony) Corals
SPS (Small Polyp Stony) CoralsGrowing Your Ideal Reef Aquarium
Choosing the right coral isn't about jumping into the most colorful or expensive option. It's about matching your coral selection to your current skill level, tank conditions, and long-term goals. Start with hardy species, learn what works in your system, and expand from there.
Ask Yourself:
- Will I have time to prune and manage coral growth?
- How will the tank look six months from now?
- Am I prepared for the equipment and maintenance needed to support long-term growth?
- How often do I want to test water parameters and dose the tank?
Being realistic about your goals and maintenance commitment will help you build a more sustainable and enjoyable reef tank.
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