LPS Corals

LPS (Large Polyp Stony) corals offer the perfect balance between color, movement, and ease of care—making them a popular choice for both new and experienced reefers. Known for their fleshy polyps, sweeping tentacles, and bold patterns, LPS corals bring dynamic texture to reef aquariums without the intense demands of SPS species.
 

At Top Shelf Aquatics, we offer a wide selection of LPS corals grown in-house as well as select imported specimens that are carefully conditioned before being made available for sale. Each frag or colony is fully healed, monitored for polyp extension and coloration, and ready to transition into your home system.

 

Whether you're looking for aquacultured Euphyllia or a show-stopping imported Scoly or Trachy, this collection includes stable, visually impressive pieces curated by our team of reef professionals.

Skip to results list

Filters

656 items
Column grid

Active filters:

Price
to
The highest price is $2,379.99
Filters
Type
Brand
Availability
Column grid

Filter

Active filters:

Price
to
The highest price is $2,379.99
Filters
Type
Brand
Availability

Top picks

Top LPS Corals

Compare the strongest options in this collection at a glance.

TSA Laffy Taffy Goniopora Coral

TSA Laffy Taffy Goniopora Coral

Starting at $174.99
Introduction to Goniopora
Goniopora, scientifically known as Goniopora spp., are captivating Large Polyp Stony (LPS) corals celebrated for their vibrant coloration and distinctive, flower-like polyps. Commonly referred to as "Flowerpot Corals,"...
View details
Jason Fox Yellow Submarine Favia Coral

JF Yellow Submarine Favia Coral

Starting at $159.99
Introduction to Favia Corals
Favia corals, often referred to as closed brain corals, are a captivating addition to reef aquariums, admired for their fleshy polyps and distinctive patterns. These Large Polyp...
View details

Answers

LPS Coral FAQ

What makes TSA’s LPS corals different from others online?
Our LPS corals include a mix of aquacultured frags and hand-selected imported colonies. Many species, like Euphyllia, Favia, and Blastomussa, are grown in-house under consistent lighting and flow conditions by our farm team. These pieces are fully healed, encrusted, and conditioned to thrive in reef tanks.

For meatier species that are difficult to farm—like Scolies, Wellsos, and Trachyphyllia—we work with trusted import partners and hold each coral in controlled systems for health monitoring and recovery before listing. Whether farmed or imported, we inspect every coral for tissue health, polyp extension, and coloration before it’s shipped.
What kind of lighting and flow do LPS corals need?
Most LPS corals thrive under moderate lighting (PAR 75–150) and gentle to moderate, indirect flow. Too much flow can cause their large polyps to retract or tear, while too little may lead to detritus buildup. We recommend placing them in areas where they can gently sway without being blasted.

We grow our LPS under a combination of Radion LEDs and metal halides to balance growth and coloration. Each product page includes care recommendations so you can match conditions in your tank.
Are LPS corals a good choice for beginners?
Many LPS corals are well suited for beginner and intermediate reefers. Species like Candy Cane (Caulastrea), Acanthastrea, and some Favia varieties are forgiving and tolerant of moderate parameter swings. They don’t require intense lighting or aggressive flow, and they respond well to target feeding.

That said, some LPS—like Torches, Elegance, or meatier imports—may need more stable conditions and careful placement due to their size, sweepers, or sensitivity. If you’re just starting out, our team can help guide you to the most appropriate options.
What should I look for when I buy LPS coral?
When shopping for LPS corals, focus on a few key indicators of health and quality:

- Polyp extension: Healthy LPS corals should have full, fleshy tissue with good inflation or polyp extension. Avoid pieces with receding tissue or exposed skeleton.
- Coloration: Look for vibrant, well-defined colors that aren’t overly saturated or washed out. While some variation can occur under different lighting, healthy coloration is usually a sign of stability.
- Healing status: Corals that are freshly cut may not be fully encrusted or healed. At Top Shelf Aquatics, we only list LPS once they’ve recovered and are well-adjusted to captive conditions.
-Frag vs. colony: Smaller frags are great for growing into shape over time, while larger colonies offer instant impact but may require more stable parameters.
- Compatibility: Make sure the species fits your tank size, lighting, and livestock mix. Some LPS corals have long sweeper tentacles and can sting nearby neighbors.

If you're unsure, look for product pages that offer clear care recommendations—or reach out to our team for guidance based on your specific tank setup.
Should LPS corals be fed?
Yes, most LPS corals benefit from supplemental feeding. While they get some of their energy through photosynthesis via their zooxanthellae, many species have large mouths and actively capture food—especially at night or when flow is reduced.

Feeding helps boost growth, coloration, and tissue expansion. At TSA, we regularly feed our LPS a mix of amino acids, fine particulate foods, and meatier options like mysis shrimp for species with larger polyp structures (e.g., Scolies, Wellsos, Trachys, and Acanthophyllia).

For best results:
- Target feed 2–3 times a week using a turkey baster or pipette
- Turn off flow temporarily to allow corals to feed without interference
- Feed after lights have dimmed, when tentacles are typically extended

Overfeeding can affect water quality, so be sure to monitor nutrient levels and only feed what your system can handle.

Dive deeper

More info and buying tips

Dive Deeper: Info & Tips for LPS Corals

LPS corals are known for their large, fleshy polyps and flowy appearances, making them the ideal choice for both new and seasoned reef enthusiasts who are looking to add more movement to their reef. Here are some things to consider when placing any new LPS coral into your tank.

  • Choose the right placement for your LPS coral in the aquarium. They prefer medium lighting and moderate water flow, so position them away from direct current but not in stagnant areas.
  • Maintain a stable water environment with consistent calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels to keep your LPS corals thriving.
  • Feed your LPS corals occasionally with small bits of meaty foods or coral-specific feeds such as Reef Roids and Benepets to encourage growth and vibrant color.

Expert Advice

  • Creating the Ideal Environment: For a thriving LPS reef aquarium, ensure the water flow is gentle to moderate. Too much flow can cause the polyps to retract, while too little can lead to stagnation.
  • Lighting Needs: While LPS corals are not as light-demanding as SPS corals, they still require medium lighting. Using adjustable LEDs allows you to fine-tune light levels based on the specific needs of each coral.

Compatible Tank Mates: Ensure that your aquarium doesn’t have any angelfish or fish species that tend to pick at coral polyps. Also avoid placing them too close to aggressive corals to prevent stinging.