Torch Coral

Torch coral (Euphyllia glabrescens) is a large-polyp stony coral kept for its long, flowing tentacles, every one tipped with a rounded knob — the torch name comes from the way a colony sways and flickers in the current. Polyps extend from a branching skeleton and grow head by head.

Care

Moderate light and moderate, indirect flow suit it best: enough movement for the tentacles to stretch out long and sway, never so much that they whip or tear. Leave roughly six inches of clear room on every side — a torch can put out long, aggressive sweeper tentacles, especially at night, and it will sting whatever it touches. Stable alkalinity and the occasional target feeding support steady growth.