TSA Sour Orange Lithophyllon Coral

Introduction to Lithophyllon

Lithophyllon corals are a striking type of Large Polyp Stony (LPS) coral known for their flattened, plate-like structure and vibrant coloration. These corals come in a variety of stunning hues, including oranges, yellows, greens, and purples, often with fluorescent accents that glow beautifully under blue-spectrum lighting.

Moderately hardy and well-suited for intermediate hobbyists, their encrusting growth pattern allows Lithophyllon corals to spread across rockwork, creating a colorful and textured display in reef tanks. With proper care and stable conditions, they make an excellent addition to both new and established reef systems.

Natural Habitat and Origin

Lithophyllon corals are native to the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific, with notable populations in regions such as Indonesia, the Philippines, and the Great Barrier Reef. They are typically found in shallow to moderately deep reef zones, often encrusting on rocky substrates or coral rubble.

In their natural habitat, Lithophyllon corals thrive in areas with moderate light and gentle to moderate water flow. Their plate-like structure and vibrant coloration are adaptations to these environments, allowing them to capture light efficiently and compete for space on the reef.

Water Chemistry

Lithophyllon corals thrive in stable water conditions with balanced nutrients, making regular maintenance and parameter consistency essential for their health and coloration. While they are relatively forgiving, sudden changes in water quality can lead to stress.

• Calcium: 400–450 ppm
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
• Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
• Nitrates: 5–15 ppm
• Phosphates: <0.10 ppm
• Temperature: 76–80°F
• Salinity: 1.024–1.026

Regular water changes and consistent parameter monitoring will help maintain optimal conditions, ensuring Lithophyllon corals display their vibrant colors and steady growth.

Lighting

Lithophyllon corals thrive under low to moderate lighting conditions, with a PAR range of 50–150 being ideal. These corals are well-suited for shaded or lower-light areas of the tank, where their plate-like structure allows them to capture available light efficiently. Excessive light can cause stress or bleaching, so avoiding high-light zones is important.

At Top Shelf Aquatics, we use advanced lighting systems such as Ecotech Marine Radions and T5 setups to replicate the softer lighting conditions Lithophyllon corals naturally experience. Blue-spectrum lighting enhances their vibrant and fluorescent hues, making them a standout feature in reef aquariums.

When introducing Lithophyllon corals to your tank, gradual acclimation to lighting is essential. Begin by placing them in a shaded area and slowly increase exposure over 2–3 weeks to avoid stress or bleaching.

Water Flow

Lithophyllon corals prefer low to moderate water flow, which allows their plate-like structure to expand fully without being stressed by strong currents. Gentle flow helps keep their surface free of detritus while ensuring proper nutrient delivery and waste removal.

At Top Shelf Aquatics, we use advanced flow systems such as Ecotech Marine MP pumps and Sicce pumps to create stable, indirect water movement that closely mimics their natural reef environments. This setup promotes healthy polyp extension and optimal growth.

What We Feed

Lithophyllon corals rely on their symbiotic zooxanthellae for much of their energy, but supplemental feeding can enhance their growth, coloration, and overall health. These corals readily accept both small-particle foods and finely chopped meaty options like mysis shrimp.

• Mysis shrimp
• Tisochrysis
• Rhodomonas
• Tetraselmis
• Products like Reef Roids and Benepets Coral Food
• Phytoplankton or powdered coral foods

Feeding is best done by lightly dusting the coral’s surface with food using a pipette or turkey baster. This should be performed 1–2 times per week, ideally during the evening or when the coral’s feeding structures are extended. Pausing water flow for 10–15 minutes ensures the food remains suspended long enough for the coral to capture nutrients effectively.

Common Challenges

While Lithophyllon corals are moderately hardy, they can face certain challenges if tank conditions are not properly maintained:

• Bleaching: Excessive lighting or sudden changes in light intensity can lead to bleaching. Gradual acclimation and keeping them in low to moderate light zones help prevent this issue.
• Tissue Recession: Poor water quality, physical damage, or unstable parameters can cause tissue recession. Consistent alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium levels are essential to avoid this problem.
• Detritus Accumulation: Their plate-like structure can trap detritus, leading to irritation or algae growth. Gentle, steady water flow is critical to keeping their surface clean.
• Polyp Retraction: Poor water quality or sudden environmental changes can cause prolonged polyp retraction, impacting health and growth. Regular testing and maintaining stable conditions can prevent this issue.
• Pest Interactions: Certain pests, such as flatworms or algae-eating snails, may irritate the coral. Regular inspections and occasional dips can help keep these risks under control.

Acclimation Guide

Proper acclimation is essential for ensuring Lithophyllon corals adjust smoothly to their new environment. Follow these steps to minimize stress and promote healthy growth:

1. Temperature Acclimation: Float the sealed bag in your aquarium for 15–20 minutes to equalize the temperature.
2. Drip Acclimation: Gradually mix tank water with the shipping water over 30–45 minutes using a drip line or small cup.
3. Lighting Acclimation: Place the coral in a low-light area of the tank initially. Gradually increase its exposure to moderate lighting over 2–3 weeks to prevent bleaching or stress.
4. Placement: Secure the coral to rockwork or a stable substrate in a location with low to moderate water flow.