Euphylia Torch Corals Euphyllia Glabrescens

Description

Euphylia Torch Corals Euphyllia Glabrescens

The Euphyllia glabrescens, commonly known as the Torch Coral, is a stunning and iconic coral species found in the Indo-Pacific region. Known for its dazzling colors, swaying tentacles, and propensity to sting nearby corals, the Torch Coral has been a staple of the reef aquarium hobby for decades. Torch Corals typically occur singularly, with just one colony in any given spot, occasionally surrounded by smaller colonies that are presumably offspring or detached fragments. These colonies can attain a hemispherical shape up to a foot in diameter, though much more expansive colonies have been reported. The species is described as having phaceloid coralla that are taller than its congener E. cristata, with corallites ranging from 20-30 millimeters in diameter. Torch Corals are found across the Indo-Pacific, from Australia to Indonesia, though there appear to be some nuanced differences between the two regions, with Australian varieties exhibiting thicker, more cylindrical tentacles compared to the thinner, tapering tentacles of their Indonesian counterparts. The underlying causes of these differences remain unclear. In the aquarium, Torch Corals require moderate water flow and low to moderate lighting, with optimal water parameters including nitrate levels of 1-10 mg/l and phosphate levels of 0.03-0.1 mg/l. They are considered moderately aggressive and may sting nearby corals, so care should be taken when placing them in a reef tank. Torch Corals are generally recommended for experienced aquarists, as they can be challenging to care for and may require specific feeding regimes. Overall, the Euphyllia glabrescens is a stunning and sought-after coral that, with proper care and attention, can be a beautiful addition to a reef aquarium.