Torch corals (Euphyllia glabrescens) are among the most stunning and popular LPS corals in the reef aquarium hobby. With their flowing tentacles and vibrant colors—from gold and green to rare rainbow varieties—it's easy to see why reefers fall in love with them.
Torch Coral Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Euphyllia glabrescens
- Common Names: Torch Coral, Pom Pom Coral
- Care Level: Moderate
- Lighting: Low to Moderate (50-150 PAR)
- Flow: Low to Moderate
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive (sweeper tentacles)
- Placement: Mid to Lower tank
Water Parameters
- Temperature: 76-82°F (ideal: 78-79°F)
- Salinity: 1.024-1.026 sg
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Alkalinity: 8-11 dKH
- Calcium: 400-450 ppm
- Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm
- Nitrate: 5-20 ppm
Pro Tip: Stability matters more than hitting exact numbers. Use the ReefBay parameter tracker to monitor trends.
Lighting Requirements
Torch corals prefer subdued lighting—50-150 PAR is ideal. Signs of too much light include retracted tentacles, bleaching, and brown jelly disease onset. Start new torches low and move up gradually over 2-3 weeks.
Flow Requirements
Aim for low to moderate, indirect flow. Tentacles should sway gently—not whip around violently. Avoid direct powerhead flow which can cause tissue recession.
Placement and Tank Mates
Torch corals have sweeper tentacles extending 6+ inches at night. Give them plenty of space!
- Good companions: Other Euphyllia, clownfish, most reef-safe fish
- Keep away from: SPS corals, anemones, coral-eating fish
Feeding
Feed 1-2 times weekly with Reef Roids, mysis shrimp, or brine shrimp. Target feed near tentacles with a turkey baster.
Common Problems
Brown Jelly Disease
A bacterial infection appearing as brown goo. Remove immediately, dip in coral dip, and consider fragging healthy portions.
Tissue Recession
Causes: alkalinity swings, too much flow, pests, or stinging from neighbors.
Won't Open
Check parameters, reduce lighting, inspect for pests, or just give it time—new arrivals may take a week to settle.
Torch Coral Varieties
- Gold Torch: Classic golden-yellow with green tips
- Holy Grail Torch: Gold body with bright green tips
- Black Torch: Dark body with contrasting tips
- Rainbow/Dragon Soul: Multi-colored, extremely rare
Looking for torch corals? Check out torch coral listings on ReefBay!
Final Tips
- Deep sand bed is optional—they do fine on rock
- Consider a pistol shrimp friend if you add a watchman goby
- Secure your rockwork—they won't knock it over but neighbors might
- Be patient—new torches take weeks to fully acclimate
Torch corals reward patient reefers with incredible beauty and can live for decades in well-maintained systems!
