Collection: Coral Food

Light Isn't the Whole Diet

Photosynthesis covers most of a coral's energy needs; the rest comes from what the polyps catch. Feeding shows up as better color, fuller polyp extension and faster growth — but mouth size varies enormously between corals, so particle size is the thing to get right.

Choosing by Particle Size

• Powdered and pellet foods — coarser particles for large-polyp corals, with smaller-volume options for nano tanks.
• Phytoplankton — for filter feeders, sponges, clams and supporting pod populations.
• Zooplankton and oyster-egg concentrates — fine suspended food for small-polyp and non-photosynthetic corals.
• Suspension foods — marine-snow style products that hang in the water column longer before settling.
• Stimulants and supplements — polyp-extension triggers, plus vitamin and amino acid additives for reef systems.

Feeding is nutrient input. Nitrate and phosphate follow heavy feeding, so build up gradually and keep pace with export through skimming, media and water changes. Cutting return flow for a few minutes at feeding time keeps food where the corals can reach it instead of sending it to the sump. Questions? Email info@jlaquatics.com. Ships across the US and Canada.