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Saltwater Aquarium Guide Reef-keeping magazine
Species Profile

Hammer Coral

A hardy LPS Euphyllia with hammer-shaped polyp tips — a centerpiece coral for any mixed reef.

Hammer Coral (Euphyllia ancora) is a hardy large-polyp stony coral with distinctive hammer or anchor-shaped tentacle tips. One of the most popular Euphyllia species, available in green, gold, and 24K varieties.

  • Light: PAR 100–200
  • Flow: Gentle, indirect
  • Placement: Mid rockwork with 6+ inches buffer from neighbors
  • Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
  • Sting: Aggressive sweepers — do not place near other corals