Home Marine Corals LPS Hard Coral Species Profiles Hammer Coral
Hammer Coral
(Euphyllia parancora)
• Care Level: Moderate • Temperament: Aggressive • Waterflow: Medium
• Placement: Bottom • Lighting: Moderate • Color Form: Green, Brown, Tan
• Supplements: Calcium, Strontium, Trace Elements • Water Conditions: 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025
• Origin: Indo-Pacific • Family: Caryophylliidae • Species: LPS Hard Corals
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Native Habitat and Species Information
Hammer Coral native habitat, distribution, behavior & aquarium compatibility.
The Hammer Coral, Branched is a large polyp stony (LPS) coral and often referred to as Hammer Coral, Euphyllia Coral or Anchor Coral. Its common names are derived from the appearance of its hammer or anchor-shaped tentacles. Its polyps are visible throughout the day and night and hide this species skeletal base. Hammer Corals may be green, tan, or brown in color, with lime green or yellow tips on the ends of its tentacles that glow under actinic lighting.
Some varieties may be branched which makes them look similar to a Torch Coral (E. glabrescens). This species can be moderately difficult to maintain as it requires very good water conditions to thrive, and is recommended for experienced or advanced hobbyists.
Aquarium Care
How to successfully keep Hammer Coral in the home aquarium.
In the aquarium environment the Hammer Coral will require moderate lighting combined with medium water movement and excellent overall water quality. Care should be exercised in placing this species as its sweeper tentacles can extend around six inches at night. The sweeper tentacles of the Hammer Coral will sting any other corals or animals that it comes in contact with.
Therefore, allow plenty of room between the Hammer Coral and its closest neighbors, keeping in mind the total amount of space required due to its sweeper tentacles. For on going good health, it will also require the addition of calcium, strontium, and other trace elements to the water.
Feeding & Nutrition
How to feed and provide proper nutrition for Hammer Coral.
The Hammer Coral will benefit from additional food fed weekly in the form of micro-plankton or brine shrimp and for continued good health, it will also require the addition of calcium, strontium, and other trace elements to the water.
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