Page 1 of 2

Best corals for low light

Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 5:06 pm
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.

Re: Best corals for low light

Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 6:32 pm
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.

Re: Best corals for low light

Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 6:49 pm
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?

Re: Best corals for low light

Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 7:04 pm
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.

Re: Best corals for low light

Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 7:52 pm
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.

Re: Best corals for low light

Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 9:47 pm
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.

Re: Best corals for low light

Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 10:10 pm
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.

Re: Best corals for low light

Posted: Tue Jul 01, 2025 10:15 pm
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.

Re: Best corals for low light

Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2025 12:04 am
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.

Re: Best corals for low light

Posted: Wed Jul 02, 2025 1:20 am
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.