Help with ID

I was at my lfs the other day and the had a couple sps frags in their frag tank but didn't have any idea of what they were(they usually don't carry sps). There was one that I was interested in but I want to know what it is before I buy it. The frag I was looking at is to the left of the pvc. Sorry for the bad pics they were the best I could get.



here is a closer pic

Thanks for the help.
Dustin

 

Looks like branching Hydnophora to me, an LPS. It can be very aggressive so do not place it close to other corals.

 

Thank you Corailline. I googled it and that is it although it is a sps not lps. Either way you you were right and I am glad I came here before making the purchase. It doesn't sound like a good choice for my first sps frag.
Dustin

 

Some sites list it as an sps, and it's still up for debate, but most believe it to be an lps and if you look at the anatomy you will see it most resembles a true LPS.

 

I guess that'll give me something to read up on. Thanks again I'll pass the info on to my lfs.

 

I have found hydnos to be a very good coral. If you give them room they can be very hardy and grow quickly. Just because it can be aggresive I wouldnt write them off as one to pass on or not have.

 

How much room should they have from other corals?

 

Depends on flow, Mine is in a area of moderate flow and the stingers only extend about 2" or so, I have seen them out as much as 3" though when they were in an area of low flow. I try not to put it in an area of high flow or high light. Moderate light seems to be the best for mine. Although mine is more platelike, not branching. Here is mine.

 

So four to five inches in low flow to be safe?

 

Yeah I thnk that would be fine. Just keep an eye on it after you place it.