Australian Gold Torch Coral: A Stunning Centerpiece for Your Reef Aquarium

Why the Australian Gold Torch Coral Is Worth the Spotlight

If you’ve ever stood in front of a reef tank and found yourself mesmerized by a long, swaying, golden coral, chances are you were looking at an Australian gold torch coral. Known for its brilliant coloration and flowing tentacles, this LPS (Large Polyp Stony) coral has become one of the most sought-after showpieces in reef aquariums. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know to successfully add and care for an Australian gold torch coral in your reef tank—from placement and lighting to compatibility and maintenance tips. Whether you're a hobbyist or an intermediate reef keeper, this guide will help you enjoy the full glow-up of this golden treasure.

Image submitted by: David P

What Is an Australian Gold Torch Coral?
The Australian gold torch coral (Euphyllia glabrescens) is native to the coral reefs surrounding Australia. It stands out for its long, flowing tentacles tipped with bright gold or neon green, giving it a torch-like appearance when fully extended. These corals can grow quite large and are ideal for reef aquariums looking for a dramatic focal point.
Key Characteristics: Species: Euphyllia glabrescens | Type: LPS coral | Tentacles: Long, flowing, often gold-tipped | Placement: Mid to lower areas of the tank | Growth: Moderate, with proper care

Ideal Tank Conditions for Gold Torch Coral
Before you bring one home, ensure your reef aquarium setup is ready. Gold torch corals are relatively hardy but thrive best under stable water parameters and specific lighting and flow conditions.

Water Parameters: Temperature: 24–26°C (75–79°F) | Salinity: 1.025 specific gravity | pH: 8.1–8.4 | Alkalinity: 8–11 dKH | Calcium: 400–450 ppm | Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm | Nitrates: <10 ppm | Phosphates: <0.05 ppm
Stability is key. Torch corals can be sensitive to large swings in water chemistry, so regular testing and dosing may be required for long-term success.

Lighting Requirements
The Australian gold torch coral does best under moderate to high lighting. It contains symbiotic zooxanthellae algae that help it photosynthesize, so a well-balanced reef light setup is essential.

Recommended Lighting Options: LED lighting systems such as Kessil,  Aqua Illumination or Ecotech Radion  | PAR Range: 80–150 µmol/m²/s at placement depth | Gradual acclimation is recommended to avoid light shock Torch corals can adjust to various lighting conditions, but if you notice the tentacles retracting or bleaching, the light may be too intense.

Water Flow: Keep It Gentle but Consistent
Unlike SPS corals that love heavy flow, torch corals prefer moderate, indirect flow. Strong currents can damage their delicate tentacles and cause them to retract.
Tips for Proper Flow: Position the coral where it receives gentle, alternating flow | Use wavemakers or flow pumps like the Jebao series or Ecotech Vortech set on random mode | Avoid direct blasts of water, which can stress or damage the coral
Watching your torch coral sway gently is a good indicator that the flow is just right.

Feeding: Is It Necessary?
While gold torch corals get most of their nutrition from photosynthesis, they also benefit from occasional feeding.

Feeding Options: Target feed with reef-safe coral foods like Reef Roids or Amino Acid blends | Feed 1–2 times per week in low flow | Use a turkey baster or pipette to deliver food directly to the tentacles
Feeding can encourage growth and enhance coloration, especially in lower-nutrient reef aquariums.

Compatibility with Other Corals
Torch corals are part of the Euphyllia family, which includes frogspawn and hammer corals. However, they can be aggressive, extending long sweeper tentacles that can sting nearby corals.

Placement Tips: Leave 3–6 inches of space from other corals | Do not place too close to soft corals or other LPS species | Avoid mixing with torch corals from different regions in the same tank to prevent aggression or bacterial transmission
Despite their aggression, they do well with many reef-safe fish and invertebrates.

Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even experienced reefers can face challenges. Here are a few common concerns with gold torch corals: