First time Euphyllia/Torch owner, question

[hatfielj]

Just got my first torch coral yesterday from TCK. It seems to be doing fine so far but I’ve noticed that several of its tentacles are shaped weird (see photo). I’ve also noticed what looks like a couple of tiny pieces of them have broken off and floated around the tank. One of them was in the shipping bag when I opened it.
Is this a stress response for the coral? Is this normal behavior for torch corals?
I’m a mostly SPS guy so the euphyllia are new to me.

 

[p1u5h13r4m24]

From my experience it’s mostly normal. Just make sure you maintain adequate nutrient levels. I like to stay around 10n and .1p

 

[Brian916]

The tentacles were probably damaged in transit. Give it a few days. They will also tear or shed tips if the flow is too aggressive. Make sure it isn't getting blasted or whipping too violently. They are an easy coral in mature tanks, but they do favor a bit more nutrient than SPS.

 

[hatfielj]

Yeah, I've tried to make sure it's in the calmest spot I could find. I'm also working on getting nutrients up. The tank is pretty new (5-6 months) and I've had trouble getting nitrate readings above 0. Phosphates have been good, but nitrates keep reading zero. I'm starting a new feeding program, so I'm hoping this will correct the problem soon.

 

[kevgib67]

Yeah, I've tried to make sure it's in the calmest spot I could find. I'm also working on getting nutrients up. The tank is pretty new (5-6 months) and I've had trouble getting nitrate readings above 0. Phosphates have been good, but nitrates keep reading zero. I'm starting a new feeding program, so I'm hoping this will correct the problem soon.

You will want moderate par (150-200) and moderate random flow. Tidal Gardens website offers very detailed care instructions for specific corals. I’ll see if I can post a video of the flow on my torches.

 

[kevgib67]

https://share.icloud.com/photos/021B1SnOcvURNkdUI3Aiz4afg

 

[CHSUB]

Flow is critical imo, too strong or too weak can lead to problems. Parameters, just like all calcifying coral, do best with acro levels: No3 near 0 and po4 < .05. Mine have exploded in under a year and are attacking nearby corals, giving them room is important.

 

[hatfielj]

https://share.icloud.com/photos/021B1SnOcvURNkdUI3Aiz4afg

Thanks for the video! That's about what mine is getting in terms of flow. It's probably getting 150-200 max par since it's in the back corner of the tank.

 

[kevgib67]

Thanks for the video! That's about what mine is getting in terms of flow. It's probably getting 150-200 max par since it's in the back corner of the tank.

Then your flow and par sound perfect! Just a tip, take it or leave it, my torches, frogspawn and hammers seem to thrive with a little elevated magnesium. I keep mine at 1400 or a little higher.

 

[kevgib67]

I just noticed your from Ohio, O-H!