M Trachyphyllia (🇦🇺) #24

TRACHYPHYLLIA (TRACHY) CORAL CARE GUIDE

Trachy corals, also known as Open Brain Corals or Folded Brain Corals (Trachyphyllia geoffroyi), are large polyp stony (LPS) corals that are generally hardy and make a striking centerpiece in reef aquariums. They are peaceful but require adequate space from aggressive neighbors due to their fleshy tissue and potential sweeper tentacles.

Lighting:

Provide moderate to low lighting, ideally between 50–120 PAR. Too much light can cause bleaching or tissue loss. If transitioning from a dim tank area to a brighter one, acclimate slowly by starting in shaded zones and moving gradually into higher light.

Water Flow:

Gentle, indirect flow is best. Strong or direct currents can damage the coral’s soft tissue. The goal is to keep detritus from settling while allowing the polyp to fully expand.

Placement:

Place the Trachy coral on the sandbed or a flat, stable rock in the lower half of the tank. Avoid sharp rock edges that could tear the fleshy underside. Give at least 3–4 inches of space from other corals to prevent damage.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C)
• Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Alkalinity: 8–10 dKH
• Calcium: 400–450 ppm
• Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
  Stable, clean water is essential—Trachys can recede quickly if parameters fluctuate.

Feeding:

While photosynthetic, Trachy corals benefit from supplemental feeding 1–2 times per week. Offer small meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or coral pellets. Feed at night or when feeding tentacles are visible. Turn off flow temporarily so food can settle.

Behavior and Compatibility:

Trachys are peaceful and should be placed away from aggressive corals like torches, hammers, or galaxea. Their tissue can be easily damaged by stinging neighbors or rough handling.

Health Tips:

• Avoid exposing the coral to air for extended periods.
• Watch for tissue recession or color loss—these may indicate poor lighting, pests, or parameter instability.
• Maintain stable nutrients; zero-nutrient tanks can cause starvation.