Fox Coral - Nemenzophyllia turbida

Fox Coral (Nemenzophyllia turbida)

Fox Coral is a delicate and elegant LPS coral admired for its soft, folded, fleshy tissue and gentle flowing appearance. Its pale, graceful structure gives it a distinctive look in the reef aquarium, making it a beautiful choice for lower-light areas where it can expand naturally without being exposed to harsh flow or intense lighting.

Common Name:
Fox Coral, Jasmine Coral, Ridge Coral

Scientific Name (Latin):
Nemenzophyllia turbida

Coral Type:
LPS Coral

Growth Form:
Fleshy polyp coral with a thin, ridged skeletal structure and soft folded tissue.

Water Type:
Marine

Origin / Natural Habitat:
Fox Corals are found across Indo-Pacific reef environments, typically in sheltered reef slopes, lagoons and lower-light areas where water movement is gentle and conditions remain stable.

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:
LOW TO MEDIUM
Fox Coral is best kept under low to medium reef lighting. It does not require intense light and can become stressed if placed too close to powerful fixtures without acclimation. A shaded or gently lit position is often ideal, especially when first introduced.

Flow:
LOW
Provide gentle, indirect flow that allows the tissue to expand without being pushed against the skeleton. Strong or direct flow should be avoided, as the soft fleshy tissue is easily damaged and may retract if conditions are too turbulent.

Placement:
Place on the sandbed or very stable lower rockwork where the coral is protected from strong flow and sharp edges. Allow enough room for full tissue expansion and avoid placing it where falling rock, burrowing fish or neighbouring corals may damage the delicate flesh.

Temperament / Aggression:
Peaceful
Fox Coral is generally peaceful and does not have the strong stinging ability of many other LPS corals. However, its delicate tissue can be damaged by more aggressive neighbours, so provide spacing and avoid placing it close to corals with sweeper tentacles.

Feeding:
Photosynthetic, but benefits from feeding
Fox Coral receives much of its energy from light through its symbiotic zooxanthellae, but occasional fine feeding can support health and tissue fullness. Suitable foods include fine coral foods, amino acids, small particulate foods and very small meaty foods. Feed lightly and avoid large foods that may sit on the tissue.

Growth Rate:
Slow to moderate
In a stable reef aquarium, Fox Coral usually grows gradually and focuses on healthy tissue expansion rather than fast skeletal growth. Good inflation, soft tissue extension and consistent colour are signs that the coral is settling well.

Special Requirements or Care Notes:
Fox Coral is best suited to a stable, mature reef aquarium with gentle flow, moderate nutrients and consistent water chemistry. Avoid strong direct flow, sudden lighting changes and rough handling, as the thin tissue can tear easily against the skeleton. Inspect carefully before introduction and use coral dips where appropriate. Watch for tissue recession, detritus build-up and irritation from sand or neighbouring corals.

Suitable for:
Intermediate reefkeepers

Availability:
Availability can vary depending on colour intensity, supplier naming and season.

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.