Tooth Coral

[Arcar]

I just got a Tooth Coral, It is light Red and about big as a fist.. I'm wondering if they NEED to be in the sand or not? I have him tilted on a rock right now..

 

[graveyardworm]

Sorry I've never heard of a tooth coral, could you provide a picture, or a more scientific name?

 

[keckles]

Most likely a Lobophyllia sp.

They do not have to be placed in the sand. A stable place in your rock will be sufficient.

 

[The steven liu]

never heard of a tooth coral either, can you share a pic?

 

[keckles]

Here is a picture of a Lobophyllia sp., which can commonly be referred to as a "tooth coral":

I have heard of other genera being referred to as "tooth corals", such as Galaxea sp.. That is the problem with common names; too many possibilites. Until a picture or scientific name is posted, we won't know for sure what we are dealing with. But, because of the color description and question referring to sandbed placement (and its possible requirement), I am guessing we are dealing with a Lobo.

 

[The steven liu]

Thanks for clearing that up, I know the trouble with common names but the fuzz with scientific names is the fuzzy latin which no one speaks. Most places including the store I work at label them open brain coral instead.

 

[JENnKerry]

Tooth corals are galaxias. If this is what you have, give it lots of space. They are one of the more aggressive corals on the market.

But to answer your question, no they do not need to be on the sand.