Lobophyllia (Brain) Corals in Your Reef Aquarium

Lobophyllia corals, also known as Lobos or Brain corals, are a favorite among reef aquarium enthusiasts for their vibrant colors, fleshy polyps, and relatively low-maintenance care requirements. Whether you’re looking to add a bold splash of color to your aquascape or expand your LPS coral collection, Lobophyllia corals are a worthy addition.

Image submitted by: Keith from Brampton, ON

In this article, we’ll explore what makes Lobophyllia corals so unique, how to care for them properly, and how to ensure they thrive in your reef aquarium. From water parameters to placement and feeding, we’ve got your coral care covered.

What Are Lobophyllia Corals?

Lobophyllia corals are a type of large polyp stony (LPS) coral native to the Indo-Pacific. Recognizable by their meaty, lobed polyps and striking coloration—ranging from deep reds and oranges to electric greens and blues—these corals often become centerpieces in a reef tank. Their wavy, brain-like appearance adds both visual interest and texture to any aquascape.

They can grow to impressive sizes over time and are best suited for medium to large reef aquarium setups where they have space to spread without touching neighboring corals.

Ideal Tank Conditions for Lobophyllia Corals

Getting your tank conditions right is essential for keeping Lobophyllia healthy and vibrant. Here's what to aim for:

• Temperature: 24°C to 26°C (75°F to 79°F)

• Salinity: 1.024 – 1.026 SG

• pH: 8.1 – 8.4

• Calcium: 400–450 ppm

• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH

• Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm

They prefer moderate water movement and lighting. Too much flow can cause their polyps to retract, while too little may not bring enough nutrients or oxygen to the coral.

Tip: Use controllable wave pumps (like the Jebao or Nero series) to fine-tune flow direction. Adjustable LED lighting also makes it easier to provide the perfect PAR range—between 80–150 is typically ideal for Lobophyllia.

Placement and Compatibility

Lobophyllia corals should be placed on the sand bed or lower rock structures, giving them ample space from other corals. Although they’re not overly aggressive, they do have sweeper tentacles that can sting neighboring species—especially at night.

Keep at least a few inches of space around each colony. This is particularly important in a mixed reef aquarium where space is at a premium.

Good tankmates:

• Other LPS corals like Acanthastrea or Favia

• Peaceful soft corals like zoanthids or mushrooms

• Most reef-safe fish, such as clownfish, gobies, and tangs

Avoid placing near:

• Aggressive SPS corals like Hydnophora

• Euphyllia species (Hammer, Frogspawn) due to potential stinging wars

• Invertebrates known for nibbling fleshy tissue (e.g., large crabs or some shrimp)

Feeding and Nutrition

While Lobophyllia corals can survive on photosynthesis via their symbiotic zooxanthellae, they truly thrive when fed supplemental meaty foods.

Recommended feeding:

• 2–3 times per week

• Use coral foods like reef roids, or finely chopped seafood

• Feed at night when their tentacles are extended

Target feeding helps promote growth and brings out their vivid colors. Be sure to use a turkey baster or coral feeder to gently deliver food directly to the polyps.

Pro tip: Turn off your water flow temporarily while feeding to allow the coral to capture and consume food more effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Like any coral, Lobophyllia has its quirks. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Placing them too high: They dislike intense lighting. High PAR can cause bleaching or stress.

• Overcrowding: Lack of space leads to stinging neighbors and damaged tissue.

• Ignoring calcium or alkalinity levels: These corals build calcium-based skeletons, so stable parameters are critical.

• Not acclimating properly: Sudden light or water parameter changes can shock Lobos. Always drip acclimate and light-acclimate slowly.

• Overfeeding: While supplemental food helps, excessive feeding can degrade water quality.

Final Thoughts

Lobophyllia corals offer a stunning combination of color, movement, and relatively easy care. With the right tank setup, regular feeding, and proper placement, they can become long-lived and eye-catching residents of your reef aquarium.

Whether you’re building out your first LPS collection or looking for a showpiece to complete your aquascape, Lobophyllia corals make a fantastic addition.

Ready to enhance your reef aquarium?
Browse our wide selection of reef-safe supplements, lighting systems, and flow pumps at Reef Supplies Canada.