Dark Reverse Hammer - Fimbriaphyllia sp.

Dark Reverse Hammer (Fimbriaphyllia sp.)

Dark Reverse Hammer is a distinctive LPS coral valued for its rich, contrasting colouration, fleshy hammer-shaped polyps and graceful movement in the reef aquarium. Its darker tones and reverse-style colour pattern can create excellent contrast against brighter corals, making it an appealing feature piece for a stable mixed reef or LPS-focused display.

Common Name:
Dark Reverse Hammer, Reverse Hammer Coral, Hammer Coral, Euphyllia Hammer

Scientific Name (Latin):
Fimbriaphyllia sp.

Coral Type:
LPS Coral

Growth Form:
Fleshy polyp coral with hammer or anchor-shaped tentacle tips, growing from a hard calcium carbonate skeleton.

Water Type:
Marine

Origin / Natural Habitat:
Hammer corals are found across Indo-Pacific reef environments, including reef slopes, lagoonal reefs and sheltered mixed coral habitats where they receive moderate light, stable water quality and gentle to moderate water movement.

Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–26°C
pH Range: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: SG 1.024–1.026
Alkalinity: 7–10 dKH
Calcium: 400–450 ppm
Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
Nitrate: Low but detectable
Phosphate: Low but detectable

Lighting:
MEDIUM
Dark Reverse Hammer is best kept under moderate reef lighting, where its colouration and polyp extension can develop well without excessive stress. Avoid placing it directly under very intense lighting when first introduced, and use gradual acclimation if moving it into a brighter position.

Flow:
LOW TO MEDIUM
Provide gentle to moderate, indirect flow that allows the polyps to sway naturally. Strong direct flow should be avoided, as it can force the fleshy tissue against the skeleton and may cause retraction, irritation or tissue damage.

Placement:
Place on lower to middle rockwork where the coral can expand fully and remain secure. Allow generous spacing from neighbouring corals, as Hammer corals can extend beyond their skeleton and may sting nearby livestock.

Temperament / Aggression:
Semi-aggressive
Hammer corals can sting nearby corals and may extend sweeper tentacles, especially when competing for space. Keep it away from delicate SPS, soft corals and other LPS corals unless there is enough room to prevent contact.

Feeding:
Photosynthetic, but benefits from feeding
Dark Reverse Hammer receives much of its energy from light through its symbiotic zooxanthellae, but occasional feeding can support tissue fullness, colour and growth. Suitable foods include small mysis, fine meaty coral foods, LPS pellets and enriched reef foods. Feed sparingly and avoid oversized foods that may stress the tissue.

Growth Rate:
Moderate
In a stable reef aquarium, Dark Reverse Hammer can gradually develop into a fuller display with healthy polyp extension and steady skeletal growth. Consistent calcium, alkalinity and magnesium levels are important for long-term success.

Special Requirements or Care Notes:
Maintain stable water parameters and avoid sudden changes in alkalinity, salinity or lighting. Keep the coral away from strong direct flow and allow room for full polyp expansion. Hammer corals can be sensitive to tissue damage, brown jelly infections and rough handling, so inspect carefully before introduction and use coral dips where appropriate. Moderate nutrients, stable chemistry and good spacing will help support strong colour and healthy growth.

Suitable for:
Beginner to Intermediate reefkeepers

Availability:
Premium coral

All images are a visual representation of the coral you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Please note that Mother Nature is a wonderful thing, and variation in patterns, colours and growth form will occur — that is part of the unique beauty of these animals.