question on polyp extension and lighting

[Runfrumu]

Since most softies photosynthetic, is it possible that they could receive enough lighting where they never extend their poylps?

[rhythmicfire]

The polyps are not just for expanding surface area to take up more light, but I also believe polyps are a feeding mechanism for the coral as well. A general rule of thumb (there are exceptions) is that when a coral is not opening or extending its' polyps, it usually being irritated. Even when given enough lighting the polyps should still extend. If it is somehow receiving TOO much light it may not expand.

[lancer99]

rhythmic, apologies, but I don't think that's the whole story. Some species (for example, some Devil's Hand/Lobophytum sp.) may never extend their polyps, yet continue to grow & thrive. That was my experience FWIW.

-R

[rhythmicfire]

Ah, well I suppose that would be kind of a first for me. In my own experience, healthy leathers extended their polyps. Then again there is probably a lot I haven't seen. I have a devils hand leather and it always extends its polyps unless shedding muscous. Could be a species thing as well.
Glad to hear it's growing for you though.

[Runfrumu]

My toadstool used to come out alot, but as of late he rarely does except when I put a powerhead directly on him, then he comes out for a day or so and then goes back to no polyps. I've tried high flow, low flow, everything. My water checks out good and my LPS are growing like mad, as are my zoanthids. My devil's hand has yet to extend polyps in the 2 months I've had him but has gotten alot bigger.

[jck9]

my toadstool extends its pollyps but the flowery tips wont open. ive had it for about six months and it has grown a good bit and looks really healthy but has never opened the flowery tips. they are just closed up like a fist. anyone have any ideas why they wont open?