Feeding Corals Isn't One-Size-Fits-All
Feeding your corals isn’t just about dumping food in and hoping for the best. Each type of coral has different needs—and how often you feed them can make a big difference in their growth, coloration, and overall health. Whether you’re caring for fast-growing SPS, meaty LPS, or filter-feeding soft corals, understanding the right feeding frequency is key.
Why Feeding Frequency Matters in Coral Health
Feeding too little? Corals can starve and lose color. Feeding too often? You risk nutrient spikes, algae blooms, and poor water quality. The trick is finding that sweet spot—and it depends on your coral type.
Let’s break it down.
SPS Corals: Light Feeders, Steady Schedule
SPS (Small Polyp Stony) corals rely heavily on photosynthesis, but that doesn’t mean they don’t benefit from food.
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Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times per week
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Food Type: Ultra-fine powders, liquid plankton, or amino acid supplements
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Best Time: Nighttime or after lights out, when polyps are extended
SPS corals like Acropora and Montipora can show improved coloration and growth rates with consistent, light feeding.
LPS Corals: Bigger Polyps, Bigger Appetites
LPS (Large Polyp Stony) corals like Acan, Hammer, and Torch corals love a hearty meal. They have large mouths and actively grab food.
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Feeding Frequency: 2–3 times per week, sometimes more for aggressive growers
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Food Type: Mysis shrimp, chopped seafood, enriched brine, or pellet foods
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Best Time: When polyps are fully open—often after lights go out or during target feeding
These corals grow faster and display fuller tissue and richer color when well-fed.
Soft Corals: Passive Feeders, Low Maintenance
Soft corals like Zoanthids, Mushrooms, and Leather corals generally get most of their nutrition from light and dissolved organics.
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Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times per week (optional but beneficial)
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Food Type: Phytoplankton, liquid coral food, dissolved amino acids
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Best Time: During or after water flow reduction for better food contact
Feeding soft corals isn’t mandatory, but it can lead to better polyp extension, faster growth, and brighter colors.
Signs You're Feeding Too Much (or Too Little)
Keep an eye on your tank. Here’s what to watch for:
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Too Little:
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Coral receding or shrinking
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Faded coloration
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Slow growth
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Too Much:
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Cloudy water
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Algae blooms
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Spike in nitrate or phosphate levels
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Adjust your feeding schedule based on these cues—and test water regularly to avoid nutrient imbalances.
Tips for Establishing a Consistent Feeding Schedule
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Start slow: Begin with once a week and increase if needed.
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Feed at the same time each session: Corals learn feeding patterns.
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Use timers: Helps automate liquid feedings or flow shutoffs.
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Turn off return pumps: Keeps food in the display area longer.
Consistency leads to better results and healthier coral colonies.
Our Takeaway Feeding Schedule Cheat Sheet
| Coral Type | Frequency | Food Type |
|---|---|---|
| SPS | 1–2x per week | Fine powders, plankton, amino acids |
| LPS | 2–3x per week | Mysis, brine, pellets, chopped meat |
| Soft | 1–2x per week | Phytoplankton, dissolved organics |
Listen to Your Tank
Every reef tank is unique. While this guide gives a solid starting point, the best approach is to watch your corals closely, test water parameters regularly, and adjust feeding based on what you see.
Looking to simplify your coral feeding routine? Check out our curated Bubble Magus Aqua Food Collection, packed with options for SPS, LPS, and soft corals. Feed smarter, not harder—and help your reef thrive.
