Lightning Storm Bubble Coral (Plerogyra sinuosa)
The Lightning Storm Bubble Coral is a striking and highly distinctive addition to any reef aquarium, prized for its bold, electrified colouration and characteristic bubble-like vesicles. Its fleshy, inflated polyps create a soft, flowing appearance that adds depth, movement and dramatic contrast to your aquascape.
 
During the day, the coral expands its signature bubbles to maximise light absorption. In the evening, feeder tentacles may extend, giving it a completely different and equally captivating appearance.
 
Colour & Appearance
This variety features intense lightning-like streaks and contrasting tones, typically blending vivid greens, bright highlights and darker base hues. Under blue spectrum lighting, the coral’s colours intensify, producing a glowing, high-impact display.
Each specimen has its own unique patterning, ensuring no two pieces are exactly alike.
 
Placement & Flow Requirements
The Lightning Storm Bubble Coral thrives in areas of moderate lighting and gentle to moderate water flow. Avoid strong, direct flow, as this can prevent the bubbles from fully expanding. Allow adequate space around the coral, as it can extend sweeper tentacles, particularly at night. Best placed on the sand bed or lower to mid-level rockwork where it can comfortably expand without obstruction.
 
Care Level & Compatibility
Suitable for aquarists with some reef-keeping experience, the Lightning Storm Bubble Coral is generally hardy once established in stable water conditions.
It is semi-aggressive, so care should be taken when positioning near other corals. Provide sufficient spacing to prevent contact.
Water Parameters
For best results, maintain stable reef parameters:
Temperature: 24–26°C
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
Calcium: 400–450 ppm
Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
Stable conditions are key to ensuring full polyp expansion and long-term health.