LPS SPS compatability?

skylar · 04/28/2006, 09:02 AM

I read in a previous thread (can't find) that it is hard to keep LPS with SPS together due to chemical warefare. I have always read that it was soft corals, such as leathers, which release a growth inhibitor that effects SPS. I understand that there are battles between almost all corals for space but I was hoping for some clarification and/or source material to support the LPS SPS incompatability.

Thanks

Amphiprion · 04/28/2006, 09:06 AM

It can be done (my tank is mixed), just carefully. The most difficult aspect is matching the preferred habitats of both types of corals. Some prefer higher flow rates, whereas others like very low ones. There is ongoing research that suggests that even many stony corals secrete inhibitory compounds. Soft corals are infamous for it, since they secrete them in large quantities. Of course, when keeping any of these together, good protein skimming, activated carbon usage, and water changes go a long way.

Anemonebuff · 04/28/2006, 09:28 AM

Directing your flow over the SPS prior to the LPS or softies will help as well. The problem is more with Softies. LPS usually just send out sweeper tentacles, so 8-10" distance between SPS and LPS is a good rule of thumb.

04/28/2006, 09:02 AM	#1
skylar Registered Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Posts: 158	LPS SPS compatability? I read in a previous thread (can't find) that it is hard to keep LPS with SPS together due to chemical warefare. I have always read that it was soft corals, such as leathers, which release a growth inhibitor that effects SPS. I understand that there are battles between almost all corals for space but I was hoping for some clarification and/or source material to support the LPS SPS incompatability. Thanks __________________ Addicted 14 years. Current tank:300g Reef w/ lot's of fish, SPS, LPS, and Clams. 4 x 400w MH 4 x 110 VHO actinic. MTC Ca reactor ER 12-1 & ASMG4Xrc.

04/28/2006, 09:06 AM	#2
Amphiprion Premium Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Mobile, AL Posts: 6,611	It can be done (my tank is mixed), just carefully. The most difficult aspect is matching the preferred habitats of both types of corals. Some prefer higher flow rates, whereas others like very low ones. There is ongoing research that suggests that even many stony corals secrete inhibitory compounds. Soft corals are infamous for it, since they secrete them in large quantities. Of course, when keeping any of these together, good protein skimming, activated carbon usage, and water changes go a long way. __________________ You've done it now, haven't you? Current Tank Info: 40g breeder patch reef w/ seagrass; 2-250w XM 10K; Vortech MP40wES & MP10wES; BM Curve 7 skimmer; carbon & occasional GFO

04/28/2006, 09:28 AM	#3
Anemonebuff Registered Member Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: LI,NY Posts: 3,877	Directing your flow over the SPS prior to the LPS or softies will help as well. The problem is more with Softies. LPS usually just send out sweeper tentacles, so 8-10" distance between SPS and LPS is a good rule of thumb.