Coral Classification Info

Information on the three different coral classifications and how they differ from each other. This includes soft coral, LPS coral (Large Polyp Stony) and SPS coral (Small Polyp Stony).

 

What is an LPS coral?

Hard corals can be divided into two major groups.

One example is the Small Polyp Stony Coral, or SPS Coral.

Large Polyp Stony Corals, or LPS Coral, are another category of Hard Corals.

The soft, fleshy body of LPS is frequently recognized by its enormous (in comparison to SPS Coral) polyps or mouths.

Although each mouth or polyp is a separate organism, they join together to grow into a colony.

What is an SPS coral?

Hard corals can be divided into two major groups.

One example is the Small Polyp Stony Coral, or SPS Coral.

Large Polyp Stony Corals, or LPS Corals, are another category of Hard Corals.

Smaller polyp sizes and a calcified internal skeleton are two characteristics that SPS corals frequently display.

The majority of SPS corals do not always respond to this form of identification, though.

SPS coral is frequently the first thing that comes to mind when people think about oceanic reefs.

SPS coral have elaborate growth patterns and create structure making up a lot of the coral reefs.

 

What are soft corals?

Contrary to hard corals, soft corals do not develop a skeletal structure made of hard carbonite.

Soft corals may now move and sway with the current of the water thanks to this.

Because it requires little maintenance, this kind of coral is especially well-liked by newer enthusiasts.

Soft corals generally thrive in poorer water quality tanks because they are less sensitive to changes in the water's parameters.

They are the best option for anyone setting up a new tank or searching for low-maintenance corals because of this.