Starting a reef tank is exciting, but choosing the right corals can be a little overwhelming. If you're new to reef-keeping, it's important to select corals that are hardy, easy to care for, and beautiful. In this guide, we’ll go over the top 10 beginner corals that are perfect for new reefers.

1. Zoanthids (Zoas)

Zoanthids, also known as Zoas, are some of the most popular beginner corals due to their vibrant colors and easy care. These soft corals grow quickly, tolerate a range of water conditions, and don’t require intense lighting or feeding.

• Care Level: Easy
• Lighting: Moderate
• Water Flow: Moderate

2. Green Star Polyps (GSP)

Green Star Polyps are another hardy and fast-growing coral, known for their bright green color and wavy, grass-like polyps. They can thrive in various lighting and flow conditions, making them a perfect starter coral.

• Care Level: Easy
• Lighting: Moderate
• Water Flow: Moderate to high

3. Mushroom Corals

Mushroom corals are perfect for beginners because of their hardiness and ability to adapt to low light and water flow. They come in a wide range of colors and are known for spreading quickly.

• Care Level: Very easy
• Lighting: Low to moderate
• Water Flow: Low

4. Xenia Coral

Xenia Coral is loved for its pulsing motion and fast growth. It’s a soft coral that can tolerate a variety of tank conditions, making it a great choice for those just starting out. However, be aware that it can spread quickly, so plan your placement accordingly.

• Care Level: Easy
• Lighting: Moderate
• Water Flow: Moderate to high

5. Kenya Tree Coral

Kenya Tree Coral is another easy-to-care-for soft coral that grows quickly and is very forgiving when it comes to tank conditions. It’s a great way to add movement and structure to your tank without too much effort.

• Care Level: Easy
• Lighting: Low to moderate
• Water Flow: Low to moderate

6. Toadstool Leather Coral

Toadstool Leather Corals are hardy and require minimal care, making them a favorite among beginners. They adapt well to various lighting and flow conditions and can grow quite large, adding a unique shape to your reef.

• Care Level: Easy
• Lighting: Moderate
• Water Flow: Low to moderate

7. Hammer Coral (Euphyllia)

Hammer Coral is one of the most beginner-friendly LPS (Large Polyp Stony) corals. Its unique hammer-shaped polyps add a lot of texture and color to a reef tank. Hammer corals need moderate lighting and flow but are quite resilient.

• Care Level: Easy to moderate
• Lighting: Moderate
• Water Flow: Moderate

8. Duncan Coral

Duncan Coral is another excellent beginner LPS coral. It has large, fleshy polyps that look like small anemones and require moderate care. Duncan corals are great for beginners looking to explore the world of LPS.

• Care Level: Easy to moderate
• Lighting: Moderate
• Water Flow: Low to moderate

9. Candy Cane Coral (Caulastrea)

Candy Cane Corals are colorful, easy-to-care-for LPS corals that tolerate a variety of conditions. Their distinctive appearance and resilience make them a favorite for beginner reefers.

• Care Level: Easy
• Lighting: Moderate
• Water Flow: Moderate

10. Clove Polyps

Clove Polyps are soft corals that come in a variety of colors and grow quickly. They’re very easy to care for, making them a great beginner coral, though they can spread quickly, so manage their growth in your tank.

• Care Level: Easy
• Lighting: Moderate
• Water Flow: Moderate

Beginner Coral Care Tips

While these beginner corals are resilient, here are a few care tips to keep them healthy and thriving:

• Maintain Stable Water Parameters: Regularly test for salinity, temperature, and nutrients like calcium and magnesium.
• Moderate Lighting: Most beginner corals thrive under moderate lighting conditions. LEDs are a popular choice for reef tanks.
• Water Flow: Providing the right amount of water flow ensures that corals get the nutrients they need. Aim for moderate flow for most beginner corals.
• Feeding: Some beginner corals will benefit from occasional feedings of zooplankton or coral foods, though many can thrive with just good water quality and light.

Ready to Start Your Coral Journey?

At SaltCritters, we offer a wide variety of beginner-friendly corals to get you started. Whether you’re looking for hardy Zoas or the stunning movement of a Hammer Coral, check out our beginner coral collection and start building your dream reef tank today!