Red Lobophyllia
The Red Lobophyllia is a bold and fleshy LPS coral that adds rich colour, shape, and texture to the lower areas of a reef aquarium. Often called a “Lobo”, Lobophyllia are well known for their large, inflated polyps and solid, eye-catching colouration.
This red variety is ideal for reef keepers wanting a strong colour contrast against sand, rockwork, and surrounding corals. When fully expanded, the coral develops a full, pillowy appearance that gives it a strong presence in the aquarium without needing aggressive lighting or high flow.
Red Lobophyllia are a great choice for mature mixed reef tanks, LPS coral gardens, and aquarists wanting a hardy showpiece coral for the sandbed or lower rockwork.
Why Choose a Red Lobophyllia?
- Deep red colouration that stands out in reef aquariums
- Large, fleshy polyps with a full, inflated appearance
- Excellent feature coral for the sandbed or lower aquascape
- Hardy LPS coral when kept in stable conditions
- Great for mixed reef tanks and LPS coral gardens
- A strong choice for adding bold colour without needing high light
Care Requirements
Red Lobophyllia prefer low to moderate lighting, with a PAR range of around 75–150 being suitable for most reef aquariums. Placement on the sandbed or lower rockwork is usually best, especially when introducing the coral to a new tank.
Water flow should be gentle to moderate and indirect. The coral needs enough movement to keep debris from settling on its surface, but not so much that the fleshy polyps are constantly pushed around or forced to retract.
While Lobophyllia are photosynthetic, they benefit from occasional spot feeding. Offer small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, chopped prawn, finely chopped seafood, or suitable LPS coral foods once or twice a week to support growth, colour, and long-term health.
Recommended Water Parameters
- Calcium: 420–440 ppm
- Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH
- Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
- Nitrate: low but detectable
- Phosphate: low but stable
Placement & Compatibility
Red Lobophyllia should be placed on the sandbed or on a low, stable rock where its fleshy tissue will not rub against sharp edges. Allow space around the coral so it can expand fully without touching neighbouring corals.
Lobophyllia can extend feeder or sweeper tentacles, especially at night or when food is present. Leave several inches of space from other LPS corals, soft corals, and SPS corals to reduce the risk of stinging or irritation.
Best For
- Reef aquariums
- LPS coral gardens
- Mixed reef tanks
- Sandbed placement
- Lower rockwork
- Reef keepers wanting a bold red feature coral
The Red Lobophyllia is a fantastic coral for adding deep colour and fleshy texture to a reef tank. With stable parameters, low to moderate lighting, gentle flow, and enough space from other corals, it can become a standout piece in your marine aquarium.
