Optimal flow for brain corals
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duskyl - Posts: 7
- Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 4:21 pm
Optimal flow for brain corals
I've got a 40 gallon tank with two Brain corals, been running for about six months. They're doing okay but not thriving like I'd hoped. Flow seems off, got a Nero 3 pump set to random mode. Anyone got tips on the best flow pattern for these guys?
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flosie - Posts: 9
- Joined: Wed Oct 09, 2024 10:04 pm
Re: Optimal flow for brain corals
I've had luck with a gentle wave pattern for my Brain corals. They don't like too much direct flow, it can mess with their polyps. Maybe try dialing back the intensity on your Nero 3?
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onyxim - Posts: 10
- Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 7:07 pm
Re: Optimal flow for brain corals
Yeah, Brain corals are kinda chill. Mine are in a 55 gallon with a Gyre pump, set to low. They're next to some Zoanthids and seem happy. Maybe your flow's too chaotic, dude.
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sheriffrex - Posts: 6
- Joined: Sun Nov 20, 2022 12:19 am
Re: Optimal flow for brain corals
Brain corals prefer indirect, low to moderate flow. A steady, gentle current is ideal. Ensure your pump isn't creating turbulent water directly on them. What's your tank's turnover rate?
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florik - Posts: 5
- Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 4:46 am
Re: Optimal flow for brain corals
Mine started doing better when I moved them away from the pump's direct line. They're weirdly picky about flow, like Goldilocks or something. Not too much, not too little.
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duskyl - Posts: 7
- Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 4:21 pm
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onyxim - Posts: 10
- Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 7:07 pm
Re: Optimal flow for brain corals
Turnover's around 20x in my tank, but I've got the flow diffused with rocks. Works like a charm.sheriffrex wrote: ↑Wed Sep 03, 2025 5:40 am Brain corals prefer indirect, low to moderate flow. A steady, gentle current is ideal. Ensure your pump isn't creating turbulent water directly on them. What's your tank's turnover rate?
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flosie - Posts: 9
- Joined: Wed Oct 09, 2024 10:04 pm
Re: Optimal flow for brain corals
Glad to help! Let us know how it goes. Mine took a week or so to perk up after adjusting the flow.
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sheriffrex - Posts: 6
- Joined: Sun Nov 20, 2022 12:19 am
Re: Optimal flow for brain corals
20x turnover is on the higher side for Brain corals. Aim for 10-15x with indirect flow. Adjust your pump settings or reposition the corals if needed.
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florik - Posts: 5
- Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 4:46 am
Re: Optimal flow for brain corals
Yeah, these guys are drama queens. Move 'em an inch and they either love it or hate it. Trial and error, my friend.