Doughnut Coral (Acanthophyllia SP)

The Doughnut Coral (Acanthophyllia sp.) is a large, fleshy, single-polyp LPS coral known for its dramatic size, soft tissue expansion, and striking colour variations. Its inflated appearance and circular “doughnut” shape make it one of the most eye-catching feature corals for any reef aquarium. Colours range from bright reds, greens, oranges, and blues to complex multi-colour marbling that glows intensely under blue spectrum lighting.

This coral thrives in low to moderate lighting (PAR 50–120) and low water flow, allowing its delicate tissue to inflate fully. It is best placed on the sandbed or a smooth flat rock in the lower section of the tank to avoid tearing its soft underside.

Although peaceful, the Doughnut Coral can expand significantly — often 15–25 cm depending on the specimen — so give it plenty of open space. Sweepers are short, but its large expansion means it needs room to avoid contact with other corals.

Weekly feeding with mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, LPS pellets, or small meaty foods boosts colour, growth, and tissue fullness.

Care Level: Easy to Moderate
Lighting: Low to Moderate (PAR 50–120)
Water Flow: Low
Aggression: Peaceful
Placement: Sandbed or flat rock (lower section)
Feeding: Weekly (mysis, brine, small meaty foods)
Polyp Size: Typically 15–25 cm when fully expanded
Minimum Tank Size: 100 L
Growth Rate: Moderate (expands dramatically)