Step-by-step
Step 1: Choose the food typeLPS (frogspawn, hammer, torch, acan): Reef Roids, Coral Frenzy, frozen mysis. SPS (Acropora, Montipora): amino acids + Reef Roids broadcast. Soft coral (zoanthids, leathers): minimal feeding needed.
Step 2: Lights low or offReduce flow + dim or off the lights for feeding. Coral extends polyps faster + tankmates are less active during low light.
Step 3: Pre-soak frozen foodThaw frozen mysis or brine in a cup of tank water for 5 minutes. Strain liquid (it's phosphate-rich and not needed in the tank).
Step 4: Target-feed LPSUse a turkey baster. Place food directly on extended polyps. Hold steady for 30 seconds while polyps grasp + pull food into mouth. Each piece gets 1-2 squirts.
Step 5: Broadcast for SPSMix Reef Roids in tank water + add via turkey baster across the SPS area. Polyps catch the suspended food. Increase flow back after 10 minutes to clear residue.
Step 6: Wait + watchCoral takes 30-90 minutes to fully digest. Restart flow + lights gradually. Skim the surface for any uneaten food.
Step 7: Dose amino acids weeklyFor SPS: dose
Brightwell AminOmega or Coral Vitalizer per manufacturer 1-2x weekly. Provides building blocks for tissue growth + coloration.