LPS vs SPS classification drives reef tank parameter strategy. LPS examples: hammer (Euphyllia ancora), frogspawn (E. paradivisa), torch (E. glabrescens), Duncan, candy cane, blastomussa, favia, brain coral, plate coral, elegance, sun coral. SPS examples: Acropora (all species), Montipora (capricornis, danae, digitata), Stylophora, Pocillopora, Birdsnest, Seriatopora. LPS care: medium PAR (50-150), low-medium flow, target feed weekly with mysis or pellet, tolerant of nutrient swings. Beginner-intermediate. SPS care: high PAR (150-450), strong chaotic flow, ultra-stable parameters (alk 8-9 dKH ±0.3), low nitrate (<5 ppm) + phosphate (0.02-0.08 ppm). Advanced. Why beginners start LPS: forgiving of parameter swings + less light/flow demanding + dramatic visual presence. Mixed reef: possible but risky - SPS sensitive to LPS sweeper tentacles + soft coral allelopathy. Best to dedicate tanks.
Reviewed by the Fast Aquatics husbandry team · Updated May 2026
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