SciReef Trachyphyllia geoffroyi – Sustainably Cultured LPS Coral with Unique Genetics

Origin & Special Features

Trachyphyllia geoffroyi is one of the most popular LPS corals in marine aquariums. With its large, fleshy polyp and often vibrant colors, it is a real eye-catcher while also being a comparatively easy coral to keep.

This special SciReef Trachyphyllia has another unique feature: it originates from sexual reproduction at SciReef.

SciReef follows a special approach to coral breeding. While conventional coral propagation is often based on fragmentation, sexual reproduction creates new genetic individuals. Eggs and sperm are brought together, and the resulting larvae develop into individual corals.

This means that this Trachyphyllia is a true aquacultured coral produced through sexual reproduction and not a wild-collected specimen.

This approach creates genetic diversity that is not present in the same way in conventionally fragmented corals. Each sexually produced coral has its own unique genetic combination and may therefore differ from other individuals in growth, shape, and coloration.

The corals are raised by SciReef under controlled conditions in Germany. From a very early developmental stage onward, they are grown in aquaculture and gradually adapted to aquarium conditions.

Another important part of the SciReef concept is traceable provenance. The corals are associated with an ID Stone featuring an integrated NFC chip. Using a smartphone, aquarists can access information about the coral and its origin.

By purchasing a SciReef coral, you support a sustainable alternative to traditional wild collection and help make more corals from controlled aquaculture available to the marine aquarium hobby.

Aquarium Care

Trachyphyllia geoffroyi is a comparatively easy-to-keep LPS coral, making it an excellent choice for aquarists who are gaining their first experience with large-polyp stony corals.

Unlike many SPS corals, it does not require extremely intense lighting or strong flow. Much more important are a suitable location, stable water parameters, and enough space for the coral to fully expand.

1. Choosing the Right Location

Ideally, Trachyphyllia should be placed on the bottom of the aquarium.

A fine sand bed is particularly suitable, allowing the coral to rest securely while its fleshy tissue can expand fully without being damaged by sharp rocks or edges.

A smooth, stable surface can also be used in bare-bottom aquariums. The important thing is that the coral remains stable and that its tissue cannot rub against rough or sharp rocks.

Avoid:

• sharp-edged live rock

• unstable or wobbly surfaces

• narrow gaps between rocks

• areas where large amounts of debris constantly settle on the coral

Tip: Give your Trachyphyllia plenty of space. Its tissue can expand considerably more in the aquarium than its compact appearance may initially suggest.

2. Lighting

Trachyphyllia geoffroyi generally does well under low to moderate lighting.

As a guideline, around 50–150 PAR can be suitable. A location on the bottom of the aquarium or in an area with more diffuse light is often ideal.

Especially after introducing a new coral, avoid exposing it to very high light levels immediately. After transport and acclimation, a gradual adjustment to the aquarium's lighting is recommended.

If the light intensity is too high, the coral may show reduced expansion or become noticeably lighter in color. Always observe the coral and adjust its position if necessary.

3. Water Flow

When it comes to flow, the rule is: gentle and indirect is better than strong and direct.

Trachyphyllia should not be placed directly in front of a powerhead. Strong, direct flow can stress its delicate fleshy tissue or prevent the coral from fully expanding.

Ideally, provide gentle to moderate, variable flow that moves water a