The Torch Coral (Euphyllia glabrescens) offers long, flowing tentacles and constant movement that many reef keepers look for when choosing a hardy LPS coral. Many hobbyists search for where to place a torch coral or whether torch corals are hard to keep, and this species answers both concerns with predictable behavior and care needs that experienced aquarists consistently recommend. Its steady growth, clear lighting range, and visible feeding response help new owners feel confident, and the long-term success of Indo-Pacific lineages supports trust in its stability. 

Appearance

The Torch Coral grows from a calcified branching skeleton and extends long, fleshy tentacles with rounded tips that may appear green, gold, purple, or brown depending on the morph. Its tentacles sway in moderate flow and can expand several inches beyond the skeleton, creating the familiar torch-like look that makes this species identifiable in LPS-dominant aquariums.

Care & Requirements

Torch Coral care centers on stable water chemistry, moderate lighting, and indirect flow. Most tanks maintain success at 100–150 PAR, which mirrors the ranges discussed in common torch coral care articles. Moderate, random flow helps the tentacles move gently without collapsing or retracting. Place the coral on the bottom or mid-level rockwork with open space around each head to prevent sweeper tentacles from touching other species. Regular testing of alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium supports steady skeletal growth. While the coral gains nutrition from its symbiotic algae, feeding small meaty foods once or twice a week improves color and polyp extension.

How much PAR does a Torch Coral need?
Most Torch Corals respond well to 100–150 PAR, which supports both coloration and steady growth without bleaching.

Should Torch Corals be fed weekly?
Feeding is optional but helpful, and small meaty foods once or twice a week improve growth and tentacle extension.

Is a Torch Coral good for beginners?
It is moderate in difficulty and works for beginners who already maintain stable water parameters.

Tank Mates & Compatibility

Torch Corals require extra spacing because their sweeper tentacles can reach several inches. They usually coexist with peaceful fish and invertebrates but should not be placed close to other Euphyllia types unless the species are confirmed compatible. Avoid fast-moving fish that pick at tentacles or corals with strong stinging ability. A torch garden layout works when multiple torch morphs are spaced so that each head has room to expand without touching neighbors.

Can Torch Corals touch other Euphyllia?
Only some species tolerate each other, and glabrescens types typically require separation to prevent stinging.

Are Torch Corals safe with reef fish?
Most community reef fish are suitable, but avoid species that nip at fleshy polyps.

How far apart should Torch Corals be placed?
Several inches of open space prevents accidental contact from sweeper tentacles.

Aquaculture/Availability

Currently, captive-bred specimens are widely available. Availability remains steady due to long-term collection and fragging programs, and individual heads are commonly sold in single or multi-head pieces. Handle new arrivals carefully, allowing time for acclimation and gentle placement to avoid tissue damage.

Do Torch Corals ship well?
They generally ship reliably when protected from excessive movement that could damage fleshy tissue.

Is it normal to buy Torch Corals as single heads?
Yes, many are sold as single heads that grow into larger colonies under stable conditions.

FAQ

What lighting color spectrum works best for Torch Corals?
A broad spectrum with strong blue channels supports the zooxanthellae that power most of the coral’s nutrition. Blue-heavy lighting enhances fluorescence and maintains natural coloration. Many aquarists choose typical reef spectrums that peak in the 420–460 nm range.

How long does it take for a Torch Coral to grow new heads?
Growth depends on stability, feeding, and lighting. Under steady alkalinity and calcium levels, many hobbyists see new branches forming over several months, though slower growth is normal in lower-light systems.

What signs show that a Torch Coral is healthy?
Healthy Torch Corals have extended tentacles, full tissue around the base, and steady polyp movement in moderate flow. Sudden retraction, receding tissue, or pale coloration may signal unsuitable lighting or unstable water chemistry.

Can Torch Corals recover from tissue recession?
Recovery is possible when water conditions are restored and the coral is moved to gentle flow. Target feeding can help maintain strength while the coral rebuilds tissue at the damaged site.

What is the best placement for long-term growth?
Bottom or mid-level placement with open space allows the coral to expand without contacting nearby species. Placing it where light and flow stay consistent prevents stress from fluctuating conditions.

Is a Torch Coral suitable for mixed reefs?
It fits well in mixed reefs when given enough space. Ensure surrounding corals are either non-aggressive or positioned beyond the reach of sweeper tentacles.

How do temperature swings affect Torch Corals?
Even small swings can cause stress. Holding temperature between 74–78°F reduces the chance of bacterial infections and tissue recession.

What morphs are easiest for beginners?
Common green or gold varieties adapt more readily to changing tank conditions, while high-value morphs may respond more strongly to variations in light or water chemistry.