Corals in reef aquariums are usually divided into three main categories.
SPS Corals
SPS stands for Small Polyp Stony corals.
Examples:
-
Acropora
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Montipora
Characteristics:
-
small polyps
-
hard skeleton
-
high lighting requirements
These corals are typically more demanding.
LPS Corals
LPS stands for Large Polyp Stony corals.
Examples:
-
Euphyllia
-
Acanthastrea
-
Favia
Characteristics:
-
large fleshy polyps
-
moderate lighting needs
Soft Corals
Soft corals do not form a rigid calcium skeleton.
Examples:
-
Zoanthus
-
Xenia
-
Kenya Tree coral
Soft corals are often recommended for beginners.
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