Proper coral placement is crucial to the health and growth of your reef tank. It impacts how your corals receive light, flow, and space to expand. Placing corals without a plan can lead to aggression, stunted growth, or bleaching. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get it right.
Top Zone (High Light/High Flow)
Ideal for SPS (Small Polyp Stony) corals like Acropora, Montipora.
These need intense lighting (PAR 250–400) and strong, turbulent flow.
Placement Tip: Ensure they’re not shadowed by upper rocks or other corals.
Middle Zone (Moderate Light/Moderate Flow)
Perfect for LPS (Large Polyp Stony) corals like Euphyllia (Torch, Frogspawn).
Require moderate light (PAR 100–200) and indirect flow.
Placement Tip: Provide space for tentacle extension and avoid crowding.
Bottom Zone (Low Light/Low Flow)
Great for soft corals like Zoanthids, Mushrooms, Ricordea.
Thrive in lower PAR (50–100) and gentle flow.
Placement Tip: Avoid burying in sand or placing where detritus settles.
Lighting Needs
Research PAR requirements for each species.
Use a PAR meter or reliable guide when placing.
Water Flow
SPS corals prefer strong random flow.
LPS need indirect, pulsing flow.
Softies prefer minimal to moderate flow.
Aggression and Reach
Some corals have long “sweeper tentacles” (e.g., Galaxea, Torch corals).
Keep 3–6 inches between aggressive species and neighbors.
Use frag racks or rubble zones to isolate new additions.
Growth Direction
Consider upward vs outward growth to avoid overcrowding later.
Frag corals early if they grow too close to others.
Tank Mates
Avoid placing corals near snails, crabs, or fish that may nip at them.
Watch out for sand storms caused by burrowing fish.
Coral Type | Min Spacing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
SPS (Acropora) | 2–3 inches | Fast growing; needs breathing room. |
LPS (Hammer, Torch) | 4–6 inches | Tentacle sweepers can sting neighbors. |
Soft Corals | 1–2 inches | Expandable, but generally peaceful. |
Coral glue or epoxy
Frag racks
Magnetic frag plugs
Tweezers or tongs for delicate placement
Coral viewers (magnifiers) to inspect positioning
Placing high-flow corals in dead zones
Mixing aggressive and peaceful corals too closely
Ignoring future growth patterns
Overcrowding the rockwork
Forgetting to acclimate corals to light before full exposure
Mastering coral placement is one of the most important skills for new reef keepers. With the right approach, you can create a layout that’s both healthy and visually stunning. Monitor your tank’s behavior after placing new corals, and make adjustments as needed for long-term success.
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Dream World Corals is a trusted online coral retailer specializing in hand-selected, ethically grown WYSIWYG corals. With an unwavering commitment to reef health, we provide hobbyists of all levels with premium corals backed by expert care, safe shipping, and our industry-leading 72-hour live arrival guarantee. Our mission is simple: help your reef thrive.
