ORA Micronesian Red Lobophyllia Coral

The Red Brain Coral is a standout Lobophyllia variety known for its bold coloration and sculpted, fleshy ridges. Each coral features deep crimson to vivid cherry red tones that glow under actinic lighting, making it a true showpiece in any LPS collection. The large polyp structure and dramatic folding give this coral its signature "brain" appearance.

Hardy and adaptable, the Red Brain Coral thrives in low to moderate lighting and flow, and rewards aquarists with visible feeding responses and slow, but steady growth. Whether placed on the sandbed or nestled among rockwork, it'll bring a splash of color to your reef tank.

Care Guide

Water Parameters

Corals do best when water chemistry stays stable. These target ranges are widely accepted for healthy reef aquariums. Regular testing helps maintain consistency within the range, and routine water changes remove dissolved contaminants you may not be testing for. Corals with a hard skeleton, like LPS (Large Polyp Stony) and SPS (Small Polyp Stony), will require calcium and alkalinity dosing to maintain healthy growth.

• Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.025-1.026
• Temperature: 75-78 Degrees F
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Alkalinity: 8-9.5 dKH
• Calcium: 400-450 ppm
• Magnesium: 1300-1450 ppm
• Nitrate (NO3): 1-20 ppm
• Phosphate: 0.01-0.1 ppm
• Nitrite (NO2): Undetectable
• Ammonia (NH3): Undetectable

Lighting Requirements

This coral prefers low to moderate light areas of the aquarium, ideally in the 75-200 PAR range. We suggest starting out by placing it in the lower end of this range and slowly moving it to higher lighting if necessary. Higher light intensity can sometimes bring out slightly brighter coloration in this coral.

For those with mixed reef tanks, a PAR meter is invaluable for fine-tuning light levels across different corals, helping ensure each coral gets the right intensity for its needs.

Ideal Tank Placement

This Lobophyllia coral can be placed on the rockwork or directly onto the sandbed in an area that meets its lighting and flow requirements. Make sure to give it plenty of space, as it can sting neighboring corals. This risk is elevated at night when the lights over the aquarium are off.

Water Flow Requirements

Lobophyllia corals generally do best in low to medium flow areas. As a rule of thumb:

• Low Flow: Gentle, constant movement. Good for corals that have a lot of delicate tissue.
• Moderate Flow: Steady movement with occasional surges. Ideal for most soft corals and LPS.
• High Flow: Strong, dynamic movement that keeps detritus suspended. Most SPS (Small Polyp Stony) appreciate this type of flow.

Controllable powerheads make it easier to direct flow where it's needed and adjust the intensity so each coral gets what it prefers. Different flow patterns and changing flow throughout the day can help mimic natural reef conditions.

Aggressiveness and Compatibility

Lobophyllia are typically peaceful during the day, but can be quietly aggressive overnight when the lights are out, stinging any neighboring corals that may be placed too close.

Feeding and Nutrition

This coral primarily relies on photosynthesis for energy, but will display an active feeding response and benefits from regular feedings of coral foods. Dosing amino acids can also help enhance its coloration.

Growth Rate & Pattern

This Lobophyllia coral is a slow but steady grower. As it grows from a frag into a colony, it develops ridge structures that give it that iconic brain-like appearance.

Acclimation Process

Acclimation is essential for corals to adjust to their new environment. For a full step-by-step process, refer to our Coral Acclimation Guide.