Orange Branch Frogspawn

Description:

• Scientific Name: Euphyllia yaeyamaensis

• Common Names: Grape Coral, Frogspawn Coral, Yaeyama Hammer Coral

• Type: LPS (Large Polyp Stony) Coral

• Appearance:

  • Features short, bubble-like or grape-shaped polyps—often resembling a hybrid between a hammer and frogspawn.

  • The tentacles are plump and rounded with a hammered or clover-tip shape, giving it a bouncy, bubbly look.

  • Typically comes in hues of green, brown, gold, or neon, sometimes with contrasting tips.

  • Grows in a branching formation, which is helpful for fragging and growth.

Care Level: Moderate

Like other Euphyllia, E. yaeyamaensis thrives in stable, mature reef environments with proper light and flow.

Do:

• Provide room for expansion – Leave 4–6 inches between it and other corals due to potential sweeper tentacles.

• Ensure moderate, non-direct flow – Keeps polyps clean and gently waving.

• Feed 1–2x/week – Will accept mysis, brine shrimp, and coral foods like reef roids for better growth.

• Stabilize water parameters – Euphyllia are sensitive to fluctuations, especially in alkalinity.

Avoid:

• Strong direct flow – Can cause polyp retraction or tearing.

• Crowding with other corals – Even other Euphyllia may not get along due to aggression or chemical warfare.

• Sudden changes in light or parameters – Acclimate carefully to avoid stress.

Fragging:

• Frag-friendly due to its branching growth.

• Use coral bone cutters to clip between branches. Always give each frag some skeleton and healthy tissue.

• Allow frags to heal in a low-flow frag rack or zone before placing in permanent locations.

Common Issues:

• Tissue recession – Usually caused by stress, rough flow, or lack of nutrients.

• Brown Jelly Disease – Can occur if tissue is damaged; isolate and treat immediately if spotted.

• Bleaching – Often due to too much light or sudden parameter swings.

Bonus Tips:

• This coral really shines under blue or actinic lighting, where its bubbly tentacles pop with color.

• Great choice for a mixed Euphyllia zone, though you should still watch for chemical aggression.

• Consider dosing amino acids or trace elements to maintain bright coloration and health if your system is ULNS (ultra-low nutrient system).