Feeding LPS Corals: Guide for a Thriving Mixed Reef

Large Polyp Stony (LPS) corals are a captivating addition to any reef aquarium, their fleshy polyps and vibrant colors adding a touch of the exotic to your underwater world. But unlike their small polyp stony (SPS) cousins that primarily rely on photosynthesis, LPS corals require a more proactive feeding approach to thrive. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of feeding LPS corals in a mixed reef environment, offering a detailed feeding schedule and addressing frequently asked questions to ensure your corals flourish.

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Understanding LPS Coral Nutrition

LPS corals are mixotrophic, meaning they obtain energy from both photosynthesis and capturing prey. Their symbiotic zooxanthellae algae provide a significant portion of their nutritional needs through photosynthesis, converting light into energy. However, to truly thrive, LPS corals need supplemental feeding to obtain essential nutrients like proteins, amino acids, and fatty acids, which contribute to growth, coloration, and overall health.

Factors Influencing Feeding Frequency

The ideal feeding schedule for your LPS corals depends on several factors:

Species: Different LPS coral species have varying nutritional requirements and feeding responses. Some, like Trachyphyllia and Scolymia, are voracious eaters and benefit from more frequent feedings, while others, like Caulastrea and Blastomussa, may require less frequent meals.
Size and Polyp Extension: Larger corals with more polyps naturally require more food than smaller colonies. Observing polyp extension is also a valuable indicator. Healthy, well-fed corals exhibit full polyp extension, while retracted polyps may suggest a need for increased feeding.
Water Parameters: Maintaining pristine water quality is crucial. High nutrient levels can lead to algal overgrowth and negatively impact coral health. Regular water changes and efficient filtration are essential to ensure optimal conditions for feeding.
Lighting: Strong lighting fuels photosynthesis, providing a significant portion of your corals’ energy needs. In well-lit tanks, LPS corals may require less supplemental feeding.

Crafting a Feeding Schedule

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While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, here’s a general feeding schedule to start with, adjusting based on the factors mentioned above:

Weekly Schedule:

Day 1: Target feed individual LPS corals with meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, krill, or chopped seafood. Use a turkey baster or pipette to deliver food directly to the coral polyps. Observe their feeding response and adjust the amount accordingly.
Day 3: Broadcast feed the entire tank with a coral food blend containing a mix of zooplankton, phytoplankton, and amino acids. This ensures that even corals that are harder to target feed receive some nutrition.
Day 5: Offer a different type of meaty food, such as finely chopped fish or coral-specific pellets. Varying the food sources provides a broader range of nutrients.
Day 7: Rest day. This allows the corals time to digest and the system to process any excess food, preventing nutrient buildup.

Observation is Key:

Polyp Extension: Monitor polyp extension throughout the week. If polyps are consistently retracted, consider increasing the frequency or amount of food.
Coral Growth and Coloration: Healthy, well-fed corals exhibit vibrant colors and steady growth. If you notice fading or slow growth, adjust your feeding regime accordingly.
Water Quality: Regularly test your water parameters, including nitrates, phosphates, and alkalinity. If levels are elevated, reduce feeding frequency and increase water changes to prevent negative impacts on coral health.

Popular FAQs

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What is the best time to feed LPS corals?

LPS corals are generally more active in the evening and at night. Feeding them after the lights are out or dimmed encourages feeding response and reduces the risk of food being consumed by other tank inhabitants.

How much should I feed my LPS corals?

Start with small amounts and observe the coral’s reaction. If the food is quickly consumed and the coral shows good polyp extension, you can gradually increase the amount. Avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to water quality issues.

Can I feed my LPS corals every day?

While daily feeding is possible for some species, it’s generally not necessary and can lead to nutrient buildup in the tank. A balanced approach with regular feeding and rest days is more beneficial for long-term coral health.

What are some good food options for LPS corals?

Meaty Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, krill, chopped seafood (fish, clams, scallops), coral-specific pellets
Coral Food Blends: Commercial blends containing zooplankton, phytoplankton, and amino acids
Other Options: Reef roids, oyster eggs, cyclopeeze

How can I target feed my LPS corals in a mixed reef?

Turkey Baster or Pipette: Use these tools to deliver food directly to the coral polyps.
Feeding Tube: A longer tube can be used to reach corals in hard-to-access areas.
Coral Feeder: Specialized coral feeders are available with long nozzles for precise targeting.
After Lights Out: Feeding when other fish and invertebrates are less active makes it easier to ensure the corals get their food.

Can I overfeed my LPS corals?

Yes, overfeeding can lead to several problems:

Water Quality Issues: Excess food decomposes, increasing nitrate and phosphate levels, which can fuel algal growth and harm corals.
Coral Stress: Overfed corals may retract their polyps and become more susceptible to disease.
Reduced Growth: Overfeeding can disrupt the coral’s natural feeding rhythm and hinder growth.

My LPS coral isn’t eating, what should I do?

Check Water Parameters: Ensure that water quality is optimal. Poor water conditions can stress corals and affect their appetite.
Observe for Pests: Check for any signs of pests or diseases that may be impacting the coral’s health.
Vary Food Options: Try offering different types of food to see if the coral has a preference.
Adjust Feeding Schedule: If you’ve been feeding frequently, try reducing the frequency and see if that improves the coral’s response.
Seek Expert Advice: If you’re concerned about your coral’s health, consult a reef keeping expert or your local fish store for guidance.

Conclusion

Feeding your LPS corals is an essential aspect of maintaining a thriving mixed reef aquarium. By understanding their nutritional needs, crafting a suitable feeding schedule, and observing their response, you can ensure your corals receive the nourishment they need to display vibrant colors, robust growth, and optimal health. Remember to prioritize water quality and adjust your feeding strategy based on your specific coral species and tank conditions. With patience and diligent care, you can create a captivating underwater world where your LPS corals flourish.

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