Best corals for low light

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knightfox
Posts: 12
Joined: Sun Feb 27, 2022 9:48 am

Best corals for low light

Post by knightfox »

I've got a 40-gallon tank with moderate flow, running AI Prime lights at 50%. What are the best options for low-light corals? I've tried Zoanthids but they're not thriving.
Folium12
Posts: 7
Joined: Mon May 09, 2022 7:17 pm

Re: Best corals for low light

Post by Folium12 »

Mushrooms and Leather Corals are great for low light. I've had success with Ricordea and Toadstools in similar conditions. What's your nitrate level? They can be sensitive to higher nutrients.
Studycore
Posts: 4
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 6:49 pm

Re: Best corals for low light

Post by Studycore »

Yep, Mushrooms are a solid pick. Also, check out Gorgonians if you're into non-photosynthetic options. Just gotta feed 'em regularly. What's your feeding routine like?
daxley
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Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 4:35 pm

Re: Best corals for low light

Post by daxley »

I'd throw in some Green Star Polyps too. They're hardy as heck and spread like crazy, even in lower light. Plus, they add a nice pop of color.
knightfox
Posts: 12
Joined: Sun Feb 27, 2022 9:48 am

Re: Best corals for low light

Post by knightfox »

Thanks for the suggestions. Nitrates are around 10 ppm, and I feed twice a week with frozen mysis. I'll look into Gorgonians and Green Star Polyps.
Roadman
Posts: 8
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 6:24 pm

Re: Best corals for low light

Post by Roadman »

If you're up for a challenge, try some Acans. They can handle lower light if you spot-feed 'em. Just don't blast 'em with flow, they'll retract and sulk.
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radface
Posts: 22
Joined: Fri Jan 12, 2024 4:06 pm

Re: Best corals for low light

Post by radface »

Yo, don't sleep on Xenia either. They pulse like crazy and don't need much light. Just keep an eye on 'em, they can take over if you're not careful.
Justicia
Posts: 4
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 5:43 pm

Re: Best corals for low light

Post by Justicia »

radface wrote: Tue Jul 01, 2025 10:10 pm Yo, don't sleep on Xenia either. They pulse like crazy and don't need much light. Just keep an eye on 'em, they can take over if you're not careful.
Agreed, Xenia's a good call but definitely needs space. Maybe isolate it on a separate rock.
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darksail
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Joined: Tue Apr 23, 2024 4:31 am

Re: Best corals for low light

Post by darksail »

I've had luck with Kenya Trees in low light. They're kinda boring but super easy to care for. Just don't expect 'em to wow anyone.
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virus
Posts: 18
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 4:10 am

Re: Best corals for low light

Post by virus »

What about Palythoas? They're similar to Zoas but might handle your light better. Just watch out for the toxins if you frag 'em.
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