Plerogyra sinuosa
| Care Level | Easy to moderate |
| Lighting | Low to moderate |
| Water Flow | Low |
| Placement | Low to mid rock |
| Aggression | Aggressive — very long sweepers |
| Coloration | Cream, pearl, green bubbles |
Color Variations
Bubble corals are most often seen in a pearly white or cream, but a vivid green form is also popular. The color is cosmetic — both are the same Plerogyra bubble coral and take identical care: gentle flow so the vesicles inflate, moderate light, and space from neighbors because of the long stinging sweeper tentacles it extends at night.
Overview
The Bubble Coral inflates rows of grape-like, water-filled vesicles during the day, giving it a soft, shimmering appearance, then extends feeding tentacles at night. Hardy and long-lived, it is a beautiful and unusual LPS — but it packs some of the longest, most potent sweeper tentacles in the hobby.
Care & Placement
Give low-to-moderate light and LOW flow — strong flow tears the delicate bubbles. Place low-to-mid on secure rock with lots of clearance from other corals. The bubbles inflate in light and deflate at night as feeder tentacles emerge.
Feeding
Photosynthetic and a strong feeder — at night it extends sweeper/feeder tentacles; target-feed meaty foods (mysis, chopped seafood) once or twice a week after dark.
Propagation
Branching bubble corals can be fragged by carefully cutting the skeleton, but the delicate tissue makes this a task for experienced keepers.
Cautions
VERY AGGRESSIVE — its sweeper tentacles can reach several inches and sting corals to death; give it wide berth. The bubbles are fragile — keep flow gentle and never handle the inflated vesicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What light and flow does bubble coral need?
Low light and LOW, gentle flow. Too much flow prevents its bubble-like vesicles from inflating and can tear them. It’s adapted to calmer, deeper conditions.
Is bubble coral good for beginners?
Yes, if you respect its needs. It’s hardy but delicate: the inflated bubbles puncture easily, so never touch them and keep flow gentle.
Does bubble coral sting other corals?
Yes. At night it extends long sweeper tentacles that pack a strong sting, so give it plenty of clearance from neighbors.