Hammer, Frogspawn & Octospawn Coral Care Guide – Care, Feeding & Lighting Tips

Introduction

Hammer, Frogspawn, and Octospawn corals (Euphyllia spp.) are beloved LPS corals known for their flowing tentacles and vibrant coloration. Their waving polyps create dynamic movement in reef aquariums, making them ideal centerpiece corals. Each species has distinct polyp shapes and colony structures, which help hobbyists differentiate them.

Scientific Name & Identification

• Hammer Coral (Euphyllia ancora): Polyps are elongated, U- or T-shaped, resembling miniature hammers. Branches are thick and compact.

• Frogspawn Coral (Euphyllia divisa): Polyps have rounded, grape-like tips that bounce with water movement. Colonies branch more extensively.

• Octospawn Coral (Euphyllia paraancora): Tentacles are thicker, covered in many colored tips that gnerally do not extend from the surface of the main tentacle.

All three species extend sweeper tentacles at night and require spacing from neighboring non-euphyllia corals to prevent stinging.

Natural Habitat

Native to the Indo-Pacific, these corals inhabit reef slopes and lagoons with moderate water flow. They naturally grow in areas with indirect sunlight and steady currents, which informs optimal aquarium placement.

Aquarium Care & Setup

Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)

pH: 8.1–8.4

Salinity: 1.024–1.026

Flow: Moderate; gentle enough to allow polyp movement without causing damage

Lighting: Moderate (50–150 PAR), avoiding high-intensity direct light

Placement: Rockwork or sandbed with space for polyp expansion

Feeding Hammer, Frogspawn, & Octospawn Corals

All three genera benefit from occasional target feeding 1–3 times per week. Fine meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or coral-specific pellets encourage polyp extension, vibrant coloration, and healthy growth.

Growth and Behavior

These corals form branching colonies with flowing polyps. Growth is slow to moderate. Polyps expand day and night, providing movement and texture in the reef. Hammer coral polyps are more rigid, Frogspawn polyps are softer and bouncy, and Octospawn polyps are forked and larger, creating a fuller appearance.

Tankmates

Compatible with most peaceful reef fish and invertebrates. Avoid aggressive corals or species that may nip at polyps. Suitable tankmates include clownfish, gobies, cleaner shrimp, tangs, and small wrasses.

FAQs about Hammer, Frogspawn, & Octospawn Corals

Are these corals easy to keep?

Moderately hardy with stable water parameters and moderate lighting requirements.

Do they need to be fed?

No, however target feeding 1–3 times per week supports growth and polyp extension.

What lighting do they need?

Moderate lighting (50–150 PAR). Avoid direct intense light to prevent bleaching.

Where should I place them in my tank?

Rockwork or sandbed with moderate flow, leaving space around colonies for polyp expansion.

Will they sting other corals?

Yes, semi-aggressive with sweeper tentacles. Proper spacing prevents coral conflicts. However, they generally will not sting other euphyllia.

How fast do they grow?

Slow to moderate; colonies gradually expand depending on lighting, flow, and feeding.

Conclusion

Hammer, Frogspawn, and Octospawn corals (Euphyllia spp.) are dynamic, flowing LPS corals that add color, texture, and movement to any reef aquarium. With moderate lighting, gentle flow, proper spacing, and occasional feeding, these corals thrive and display their signature branching and waving polyps. They are ideal centerpiece corals for any reef enthusiast.

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