Allelopathy (chemical warfare between corals)
The release of toxic substances by corals and invertebrates to compete with their neighbors. An often underestimated factor in reef design.
Detailed explanation
Allelopathy is chemical warfare between sessile organisms. Soft corals are the champions of chemical warfare. Sinularia, Sarcophyton release terpenes into the water which inhibit the growth of nearby stony corals.
Euphyllia have sweeper tentacles that can extend up to 15-20 cm at night. The Galaxea reach 30 cm.
Coral placement must take allelopathy into account: never soft corals near SPS, sufficient space between Euphyllia and the rest.
Activated carbon helps remove allelopathic compounds from water. Regular water changes dilute accumulated toxins.
A sign of allelopathy is when a specific coral does not grow despite perfect parameters. Moving it away from possible attackers is the first test.
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