Description
Dragon Soul Hard Coral (Euphyllia glabrescens)
(Also known as Dragon Soul Torch Coral, Torch Coral, or Glabrescens Coral)
Overview
The Dragon Soul Torch Coral (Euphyllia glabrescens) is one of the most sought-after large-polyp stony (LPS) corals, celebrated for its long, flowing tentacles tipped with vibrant fluorescent colours. Typically featuring gold or orange tentacle shafts with bright green or blue tips, this coral shimmers and sways gracefully under current, adding dynamic movement and striking colour to reef aquariums. A member of the Euphyllia genus, it is hardy yet moderately aggressive, requiring space to extend its tentacles without contacting other corals. With proper lighting, flow, and water stability, the Dragon Soul Torch becomes a stunning centrepiece in any reef system.
Origin
Native to the Coral Sea, Great Barrier Reef, Fiji, Indonesia, and Tonga. Found on shallow reef slopes and lagoonswith moderate flow and bright, indirect lighting.
Feeding
The Dragon Soul Torch is photosynthetic, containing symbiotic zooxanthellae that supply most of its energy. It benefits from supplemental feeding to enhance growth, polyp extension, and colour intensity. Feed 1–2 times per weekwith:
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Mysis shrimp or enriched brine shrimp
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Marine snow or coral plankton blends
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LPS-targeted coral foods
Feeding should be done when tentacles are extended, typically in the evening or low light.
Lighting
Moderate to high lighting. Provide bright, full-spectrum illumination from LED, T5, or metal halide systems.
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PAR range: 100–200 µmol/m²/s
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Acclimate gradually to prevent bleaching or retraction.
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Blue-spectrum lighting enhances the coral’s fluorescence, particularly the gold and green hues.
Water Flow
Moderate, indirect flow. Provide a steady, variable current that allows the tentacles to sway gently without being blasted directly. Excessive flow can cause tissue recession, while too little may lead to debris buildup.
Placement
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Position in the middle to lower regions of the aquarium where flow and light balance naturally.
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Mount securely on rockwork with space for tentacle expansion.
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Allow 15–20 cm (6–8 inches) of clearance from other corals — Euphyllia glabrescens extends long, stinging sweeper tentacles at night.
Tank Mates
Reef safe with caution. Compatible with:
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Peaceful reef-safe fish (clownfish, gobies, tangs, wrasses, etc.)
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Invertebrates such as snails, shrimp, and hermit crabs
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Other Euphyllia species (hammers and frogspawns) — sometimes tolerant if kept within the same genus, but monitor for aggression
Avoid:
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Aggressive stinging corals (e.g., Galaxea, Hydnophora) nearby
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Butterflyfish, large angelfish, or puffers that may nip its fleshy tentacles
Aggression
Highly aggressive. The Dragon Soul Torch extends long, potent sweeper tentacles that can inflict significant damage on nearby corals. Maintain generous spacing and ensure adequate water movement to reduce contact risks.
Experience Level
Intermediate. This coral is hardy under stable water conditions but sensitive to rapid changes in light, flow, or water chemistry. Suitable for aquarists with experience keeping LPS corals.
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
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Hardness (dKH): 8–12
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Calcium: 400–450 ppm
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Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
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Nitrate: <10 ppm
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Tank Size: Minimum 75 gallons (280L) for stability and flow control
Stable calcium and alkalinity levels are essential for maintaining the coral’s skeletal health and vibrant colours.
Reef Compatibility
Reef safe with caution. The Dragon Soul Torch Coral is a visually stunning, high-impact coral that brings energy and motion to mixed reef aquariums. Its vivid, glowing colours and long tentacle movement make it an ideal centrepiece, but its strong sting and space needs must be respected in reef layouts.
