SPS Coral Care Guide: Lighting, Flow, and Stability

Small-polyp stony (SPS) corals reward discipline. They demand intense light, chaotic flow, and rock-stable alkalinity. Get those three right and they reward you with the most spectacular colors in the hobby.

Light

PAR 300–500 at substrate, 8–10 hour photoperiod with a 1-hour ramp. Peak intensity at midday. Acclimate new colonies over 2–3 weeks by shading them initially.

Flow

Aim for 30–50x display turnover with two opposing gyre powerheads on alternating cycles. Polyp extension is your visual confirmation that flow is right.

Stability

Alkalinity drift over 0.2 dKH per day will brown out your corals. Two-part dosing or a calcium reactor is mandatory at this level.