The Large Polyp Stoney (LPS) corals as presented in this guide include a grouping which are not necessarily related. Although there is disagreement as to what defines a large or a small polyp stony coral, the description is useful for identifying corals as long as the limitations of this classification are understood.

Corals described as being LPS are more easily recognized by their highly visible tissue although they are still identified by the underlying stoney skeleton. Most of these LPS have polyps which are greater than half an inch or 1 cm in diameter. They often have very fleshy tissue in the form of very long polyp stalks or very prominent tentacles.

The corals within this group are too diverse to provide generalized care requirements. However, with few exceptions, LPS are not usually found in high energy environments. Most should be provided with moderate flow speeds and moderate light intensities. Many LPS corals are aggressive feeders and they should be offered medium to large meaty food particles on a frequent basis.

LPS are relatively slow growers and not all species are suited for captive propagation. Colonial species can be fragmented with some effort but it is not practical to fragment the solitary species. In most cases, generous feeding is required to encourage growth rates which make propagation worthwhile.