How to Keep SPS Corals

Small polyped stony corals, also known as SPS corals, are relatively difficult to maintain in a saltwater aquarium and should only be kept by the experienced aquarist. SPS corals produce several small, colorful polyps from their stone-like structure. SPS coral care includes the use of intense very high output (VHO) lighting that can penetrate deep into the aquarium, proper water movement, feeding, supplements and placement in the aquarium. Without proper care, SPS corals will become bleached and die.

Things You'll Need

  • Bio plankton
  • Zoo plankton
  • Wave maker
  • Power heads
  • Halide lighting
  • T5 lighting
  • VHO lighting
  • Coral supplements
  • Calcium reactor
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Instructions

    • 1

      Provide plenty of current to SPS corals. Stony corals require substantial, random water flow that simulates that of the ocean. Add a wave maker and several power heads to create this environment. Avoid single directional flow to SPS corals.

    • 2

      Provide proper lighting. Lighting depends on the aquarium's depth. Nano reefs are a shallow aquarium requiring a combination of T5 and VHO lighting. A larger reef aquarium such as one that is 24 inches or deeper requires intense lighting called halide. Halide lighting penetrates deep in the aquariums water and will reach SPS corals.

    • 3

      Feed SPS corals appropriately for continued heath and color. SPS corals require biweekly feeding of zoo plankton, bio plankton or pulverized food made specifically for coral. Feed pulverized food by mixing well within the aquarium. Power heads and wave makers may remain on as it helps to distribute the food to the coral. Target feed zoo and bio plankton. Target feed by turning off power heads and wave makers. Use a baster or pipette and gently distribute the liquid around corals with extended polyps.

    • 4

      Add supplements with weekly water changes. SPS corals depend on calcium and other trace minerals in the aquarium for survival and continued growth. SPS coral-only tanks benefit from weekly calcium treatments along with weekly water changes. Change 15 to 25 percent of the aquarium's water weekly. There are several brands on the market of trace minerals and calcium. Add per the manufacturer's instructions. Consider adding a calcium reactor to the aquarium. A calcium reactor connects to the tank and maintains calcium in the aquarium.