Care guide
Caring for hammer coral
- Type
- LPS (large-polyp stony)
- Light
- Moderate
- Flow
- Moderate
- Care level
- Moderate
Hammer coral is a large-polyp stony coral with flowing, hammer-shaped tentacles. It needs moderate light, moderate flow and stable calcium and alkalinity.
Placement
Moderate light and flow that moves the tentacles without tearing them suit it. Leave room around it: it stings neighbours with sweeper tentacles at night.
Water
Keep calcium, alkalinity and magnesium stable. Rapid tissue loss is a sign to test the water and check for pests.
Feeding
Most of its food comes from light, but it can take small meaty foods. Target feeding once or twice a week, with the flow turned down, often helps it grow.
Further reading
General information to help you prepare, not veterinary advice. Every animal is different: ask an experienced vet about yours. Reviewed by PerfectPal on October 14, 2026.