Are you new to the captivating world of reef aquariums? It's perfectly normal to feel a bit overwhelmed when choosing corals for your reef tank. To simplify your journey, we've compiled a list of the top 10 corals that are perfect for beginners coral reef tank. But before we dive into that, there's something you should know.
Shopping for corals can be confusing due to their common names. Names like 24K Gold Torch, Strawberry Shortcake, and Holy Grail Hammer coral can leave you wondering what you're actually getting. To add to the confusion, these imaginative names can vary among different coral suppliers. So, why the creative names? Well, they're often used to describe specific genetic traits and coloration of a coral species, and, let's admit it, they make collecting corals fun!
**10 Easy Corals Perfect for Beginners**
Now, let's explore the 10 corals that are ideal for beginners:
**Green Star Polyps**
These hardy, fast-growing soft corals are versatile in terms of aquarium placement. When their polyps sway in the water flow, they burst with vibrant neon green color.
**Sinularia Leather Coral**
These soft corals feature beautiful finger-like branching structures and come in various fluorescent colors, adding diversity to your reef aquarium.
**Xenia Coral**
Xenia Corals are known for their rapid growth and unique pulsing movement. They elegantly sway with water flow, creating a mesmerizing display.
**Hammer Corals**
Euphyllia Corals, including Frogspawns, Torches, and Hammers, are stunning and adaptable. They can thrive in various aquarium locations and are relatively easy to maintain.
**Duncan Coral**
Duncan Corals are beautiful and forgiving LPS corals. Their color morphs range from brown to vibrant green, making them ideal for lower-light areas.
**Bubble Corals**
These LPS corals have large, balloon-shaped polyps that sway gracefully. They come in various colors and are suitable for beginners.
**Candy Cane Corals**
Hardy and mesmerizing, Candy Cane Corals are known for their fast reproductive rate, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
** Toadstool leather Coral**
Toadstool Corals, part of the Leather Coral group, are beginner-friendly and have graceful, extended polyps.
**Zoanthids**
Zoanthids are popular for their rapid growth and ability to thrive in various conditions. Their small, tightly clustered polyps come in a plethora of colors.
**Mushroom Corals for your reef tank**
These are possibly the easiest corals to care for, with a wide variety of colors and sizes. They're great for beginners, but be prepared for them to move around your aquarium!
Now that you know the best corals for beginners, stay tuned to discover which corals to avoid if you're new to the hobby.
**Corals to Avoid If You're a Newbie Hobbyist**
Some corals can be more challenging, so you may want to steer clear of the following:
- Sun Corals: These require special care as they lack symbiotic algae found in most corals.
- Non-photosynthetic Gorgonians (Sea Fans): Considered "expert only" corals due to their need for regular spot feeding.
- Acropora Corals: These corals are temperamental and sensitive to changes, making them one of the most challenging corals to maintain in reef aquariums.
If you're setting up your first reef aquarium, check out our coral shop for wide range of corals to buy online in Australia. Happy reefing!