Corals
Plerogyra, Physogyra, and Catalaphyllia are among the LPS corals (Large Polyp Stony Corals) with the largest polyps in marine aquaristics. With their bubble-like polyps and graceful tentacle movements, they create an elegant dynamic in any reef aquarium. Their vibrant colors and extraordinary shapes make them stunning focal points in any underwater landscape. Due to their varying care requirements, they are suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists.
Plerogyra
Plerogyra, commonly known as Bubble Coral, is renowned for its plump, bubble-like polyps, which appear in bright shades of white, green, or blue. It prefers moderate lighting and gentle to moderate water flow to avoid damaging its delicate bubbles. Plerogyra does not require targeted feeding but benefits from fine particulate plankton or micro-particles to promote its growth. It should be placed with sufficient space from other corals as it can extend long sweeper tentacles to defend its territory.
Physogyra
Physogyra, also known as Pearl Bubble Coral, is similar to Plerogyra in its bubble-like structure, but it has smaller, more densely packed bubbles. It prefers moderate to low lighting and gentle water flow to protect its sensitive polyps. Physogyra is relatively easy to care for and adaptable, but occasional feeding with fine plankton is beneficial. It is less aggressive than Plerogyra but should still be positioned with enough space from other corals.
Catalaphyllia
Catalaphyllia, better known as Elegance Coral, impresses with its long, flowing tentacles and vivid neon colors. Its anemone-like polyps move elegantly with the water flow, creating a unique dynamic in the reef aquarium. Catalaphyllia prefers moderate to strong lighting and gentle to moderate water flow to keep its tentacles gently swaying. It is somewhat more demanding in care and sensitive to changes in water quality. Targeted feeding with plankton, frozen food, or micro-particles supports its growth and vibrant coloration.
Differences and Care Tips
Although Plerogyra, Physogyra, and Catalaphyllia share similar tentacle structures and bubble-like polyps, they differ in their appearance and aggression levels:
- Plerogyra has large, plump bubbles and can extend long sweeper tentacles for defense.
- Physogyra features smaller, densely packed bubbles and is less aggressive.
- Catalaphyllia has long, flowing tentacles and brighter coloration but is more sensitive to water parameter fluctuations.
All three species benefit from stable water parameters, particularly calcium and carbonate hardness, to grow healthily and maintain their vibrant colors. Due to their aggressive stinging capabilities, they should be placed at a safe distance from sensitive corals.
Plerogyra, Physogyra, and Catalaphyllia are mesmerizing LPS corals that create an elegant dynamic in any marine aquarium with their bubble-like polyps, graceful tentacle movements, and vibrant colors. They offer diverse scaping possibilities and exciting challenges for both beginners and experienced aquarists. With their unique shapes and vivid colors, they are an impressive addition to any reef aquarium.
