Hard coral, soft coral, LPS, SPS... HUH?

[superjohnny]

I'm new to the whole reef thing and I'd like to plan out what kinds of corals I can/should put in my tank. Light notwithstanding can someone point me to where I can get a little education on the different types of corals and what conditions they need to survive.

The key to getting what you want is to figure out what you like and make a plan, right?

Thanks

[craigGP]

the key is to figure out what corals your equipment (lighting, skimmer, etc.) can support. armed with this shortened list, you then decide and plan your tank. if you are looking for a good read, i like Aquarium Corals- selection, husbandry and natural history by Eric Borneman. it is straight forward, emphasizes a concientious marine hobby, and reasonably priced. look for it on amazon.

to over-generalize, i will say that soft corals can handle less light and dirtier water than hard corals. some LPS can fit in this category too. you must have good lighting and water quality if you want to do SPS corals.

craig

[superjohnny]

Thank you for the recomendation. What do SPS & LPS stand for?

[Disco_Jr]

sps small polup stony
lps large polip stony

I think

[skeety]

Originally Posted by craigGP

if you are looking for a good read, i like Aquarium Corals- selection, husbandry and natural history by Eric Borneman. it is straight forward, emphasizes a concientious marine hobby, and reasonably priced. look for it on amazon.

Just finished that book (cover to cover) last night.

I can NOT explain how GREAT of a book this is. VERY well written. Very informative, covers ALL aspects, and VERY open minded. (I've read way too many books where the author spends page after page telling you how HIS way is the best way, and was VERY relieved when this book was way more objective).

I was like you not too long ago, where I didn't know the difference between LPS, SPS, etc. This book is by far, the most valuable, comprehensive book I've come accross, when it comes to corals (and ALL that goes with them).

you MUST buy.

[superjohnny]

Are there any Internet resources on the subject?

[AnemicOak]

Try this...
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/inverts/index.htm
http://www.peteducation.com/category...ls=16&cat=1927