Description

Turbinaria Coral

Turbinaria Coral, often referred to as Cup Coral, Scroll Coral, or Pagoda Coral, is a distinctive large polyp stony (LPS) coral known for its unusual plate-like growth and textured surface. Unlike many LPS corals that form rounded colonies, Turbinaria develops layered cups, plates, or scroll-shaped structures that give reef aquariums a dramatic architectural look.

This coral typically displays earthy yellow, green, or golden tones with small, extended polyps that create a textured, slightly fuzzy appearance when fully open. Under reef lighting, the polyps can fluoresce beautifully, adding subtle movement and colour contrast to the aquascape.

Turbinaria is well-loved by reef keepers for its hardiness and unique growth pattern, making it a great choice for hobbyists looking to add structure and variety to their reef tanks. Over time, colonies can form elegant layered plates that resemble natural reef formations.

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Why You’ll Love Turbinaria Coral

• Unique cup, scroll, or plating growth pattern

• Adds architectural structure to reef aquascapes

• Hardy and adaptable compared to many LPS corals

• Attractive polyps that extend during feeding periods

• Excellent feature coral for mixed reef systems

Turbinaria corals are especially appealing to aquarists who enjoy corals that create dramatic shapes rather than just colour alone.

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Care & Placement

Lighting:
Moderate to strong lighting is ideal. Turbinaria generally tolerates brighter lighting than many LPS corals and often develops stronger coloration under stable LED lighting.

Water Flow:
Moderate to strong water flow helps keep debris from settling in the cup-shaped surfaces. Adequate flow is important to prevent detritus buildup on the coral’s plates.

Placement:
Turbinaria is best placed in mid to upper rockwork where it can receive adequate light and flow. Because it forms plates and cups, placement should allow space for the coral to expand outward as it grows.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 24–26°C

• Salinity: 1.024–1.026

• Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH

• Calcium: 400–450 ppm

• Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm

Stable water chemistry supports healthy skeletal growth and consistent polyp extension.

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Feeding & Growth

Turbinaria corals contain symbiotic zooxanthellae and obtain most of their energy from light. However, they will benefit from occasional feeding.

Suitable foods include:

• Fine planktonic foods

• Reef roids or powdered coral foods

• Small frozen foods such as finely chopped mysis

Feeding once or twice per week can support stronger growth and improved polyp extension.

Growth is generally moderate, with colonies slowly developing layered plates or scroll-like formations. Over time, a small frag can grow into a striking architectural coral that becomes a central feature of the reef.

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Aquascaping Inspiration

Turbinaria works beautifully as a structural focal point in reef aquariums. Its plate-like growth creates visual contrast with branching corals such as Acropora or Euphyllia, while its earthy colours complement brightly coloured LPS species.

Because of its cup-shaped form, it also creates natural shaded areas underneath the plates, adding depth and realism to aquascapes.

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Quick Facts

• Coral Type: LPS (Large Polyp Stony)

• Temperament: Generally peaceful

• Difficulty Level: Moderate

• Lighting: Moderate–High

• Flow: Moderate–Strong

• Placement: Mid to upper rockwork

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Turbinaria Coral is an excellent addition to reef aquariums where unique coral shapes and natural reef structure are desired.