Torch Coral
The scientific name of Torch Coral is Euphyllia glabrescens. It is also commonly known as Grape Coral, Trumpet Coral, Whisker Coral, Branching Anchor Coral or Pom-Pom Coral. Torch Coral is classified as a Large Polyp Stony (LPS) Coral. Its natural habitat originates from the Indo-Pacific region including Figi, Tonga, Solomon Islands and the Great Barrier Reef.
Torch Coral Characteristics
Torch coral occurs in pink, brown, green, golden, yellow and tan colors. It is aggressive towards other marine aquarium invertebrates. Torch coral has a branched skeletal base which is covered by polyps. It has sweeper tentacles tipped by the stinging cells, or nematocysts. The polyps of this coral are long and have a single rounded tip.
Illumination Of Torch Coral
Torch Coral requires moderate to high intensity indirect lighting. Actinic lighting and/or high output fluorescent lighting such as VHO and Power Compact are recommended. The coloration of the Torch Coral may be determined by the intensity of the light that the coral is exposed to. This type of coral may take some time to adjust to Metal Halide lighting.
Water Flow For Torch Coral
Torch Coral needs indirect, moderate water current in the marine environment in which it inhabits. Exposing Euphyllia glabrescens to direct, strong water current may hamper its ability to spread. If the polyps of this coral in your aquarium do not open up fully, you need to check the water quality in your aquarium. Water must be kept clean and free of all infectious organisms.
Feeding And Nutrition Of Torch Coral
Euphyllia glabrescens derives its nutrition mainly through photosynthesis, performed by zooxanthellae, a photosynthetic algae living symbiotically with the coral. Torch coral also feeds upon acellular marine invertebrates, frozen meaty bits of raw shrimp, Silver Side, fish, squid, zooplankton and phytoplankton. Adding calcium, strontium and trace elements to the water of the aquarium is also beneficial.
Torch Coral Cautions
Torch coral has long sweeper tentacles that can sting other marine invertabrate in the aquarium that touches them. Its a good idea to keep other tank members at a safe distance away to avoid any problems. This type of coral can also sting humans as well, so its advisable to handle the coral carefully to avoid the painful burning sensation and blisters from stings. These stings are painful, but the effects usually only last about 24 hours.
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