Coral Compatibility in Reef Aquariums
Not all corals can safely live next to each other. Many corals compete for space using chemical defenses or aggressive tentacles.
Understanding coral compatibility is important when designing a reef aquarium.
Aggressive Corals
Some corals can damage neighboring corals using long sweeper tentacles.
Examples include:
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Euphyllia
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Galaxea
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Elegance Coral
These corals should be placed with extra space between colonies.
Peaceful Corals
Some corals coexist peacefully with many species.
Examples include:
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Zoanthus
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Rhodactis corals
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Green star polyps
These are excellent choices for mixed reef aquariums.
Coral Spacing
Proper coral spacing prevents chemical warfare and physical damage.
General recommendation:
Leave 5–10 cm between coral colonies.
Coral Growth Considerations
Many beginner corals grow rapidly.
When planning coral placement remember that colonies will expand over time.
Recommended Coral Placement
Soft corals usually tolerate closer placement.
LPS and SPS corals should have more space due to potential aggression.
