Best Beginner Corals That Are Hard to Kill
Starting a reef tank is exciting, but choosing the right first corals can make the difference between early success and frustration. Some species are naturally hardy, tolerant of imperfect water conditions, and forgiving for new hobbyists still learning the ropes.
Below are some of the best beginner-friendly corals that are easy to care for, widely available, and capable of thriving in most stable reef systems.
1. Zoanthids
Zoanthids, often called zoas, are one of the most popular starter corals. They come in endless colors and patterns, grow quickly, and tolerate a wide range of lighting and flow.
Ideal parameters: Moderate lighting, low to medium flow, temperature 75–82°F, salinity 1.023–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4.
Why they are great:
Extremely hardy and adaptable.
Spread nicely, filling empty rock space.
Colorful even in lower-end lighting.
Handle with caution, as some varieties contain palytoxin. Gloves and eye protection are recommended.
2. Green Star Polyps
Green Star Polyps (GSP) are nearly bulletproof. This coral will survive low light, higher nutrients, and small water parameter swings.
Ideal parameters: Moderate lighting, medium flow, temperature 75–82°F, salinity 1.023–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4.
Why they are great:
Fast growing.
Easy to frag and propagate.
Bright neon color under most lighting.
They can spread aggressively, so placing them on isolated rocks can help manage growth.
3. Mushrooms (Discosoma and Rhodactis)
Mushroom corals are some of the most hardy and low-maintenance corals available. They prefer moderate to low lighting and minimal flow.
Ideal parameters: Low to moderate lighting, low to medium flow, temperature 74–80°F, salinity 1.022–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4.
Why they are great:
Thrive in tanks with higher nutrients.
Easy to adapt to new conditions.
Widely available and affordable.
4. Xenia
Pulse Xenia is famous for its constant pulsing motion, adding natural movement to the tank.
Ideal parameters: Moderate lighting, low to medium flow, temperature 75–82°F, salinity 1.023–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4.
Why they are great:
Beginner friendly and fast growing.
No feeding required.
Survives in a wide range of water conditions.
It can grow rapidly and spread, so keeping it on isolated rocks is recommended.
5. Clove Polyps
Clove Polyps are attractive soft corals with delicate, star-shaped polyps that open and sway beautifully in the flow.
Ideal parameters: Moderate lighting, low to medium flow, temperature 75–82°F, salinity 1.023–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4.
Why they are great:
Hardy and adaptable.
Add movement and texture to the tank.
Come in various colors and grow steadily.
They can spread over time, so placing them on a dedicated rock section helps control growth.
6. Candy Cane (Caulastrea)
Candy Cane corals are one of the easier LPS species and are ideal for reef keepers who want to move beyond soft corals.
Ideal parameters: Moderate lighting, low to medium flow, temperature 75–82°F, salinity 1.023–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4.
Why they are great:
Thick, durable polyps.
Visible feeding response and growth.
Handles moderate nutrient levels and lighting.
They are colorful, affordable, and make great starter LPS colonies without being demanding.