If you are into reef aquariums you probably heard people talk about sps coral , with a mix of excitement and fear. Some people even describe them as the most beautiful corals you can keep others say they are the hardest , the corals are not impossible they just ask for patience and a little respect.

What are SPS corals?

Before you check outred Red sea aquarium you need to understand the basics. The corals have tiny polyps and hard calcium skeletons. They grow slowly but firm stunning shapes like plates the tables.

Popular SPS corals include:

• Acropora
• Montipora
• Pocillopora
• Seriatopora (Birdsnest)

Lighting needs for SPS corals

Lighting is one of the most important factors for SPS success. You must always acclimate SPS corals slowly to new lighting and start them lower in the tank and move them up gradually.

SPS corals rely heavily on light for energy. Strong lighting helps them maintain color and grow properly.

• LED, T5, or metal halide lights can work
• Consistent light schedule is more important than brightness alone
• Sudden changes in light can stress corals

Water flow keep it moving

You must aim for flow that moves the coral gently but consistently. If polyps are tightly closed all the time flow might be too strong or too weak.

What makes SPS corals special is their color and structure. Under good lighting, they show bright blues, pinks, greens, purples, and even neon shades that almost glow.

Good water flow helps:

• Bring food and nutrients to polyps
• Remove waste from coral surfaces
• Prevent algae buildup

Feeding SPS Corals: Do They Eat?

Yes, SPS corals do eat—but not like fish.

They mainly get energy from light, but they also benefit from:

• Fine coral foods
• Amino acids
• Clean, nutrient-balanced water

Are SPS Corals Right for You?

Ask yourself a few honest questions:

• Is my tank mature and stable?
• Am I willing to test water regularly?
• Can I avoid making sudden changes?
• Do I enjoy long-term patience?

So in short you can just say that SPS corals are not just decorations they are living indicators of balance and care. They demand attention but they give beauty in return , you don’t need to rush into SPS corals take your time and learn your tank.