When purchasing LPS, inspect the integrity of the tissue. If there are major breaks in the tissue where there is exposed skeleton, it is probably best to avoid that particular specimen unless you're a seasoned hobbyist. Same advice for if there are any dark or slimely patches on the tissue. Bleached LPS can often rebound under the right conditions, but again, it's probably left to those with experience and established tanks. Make sure to inspect both the top and bottom side of the LPS colony. If your LFS doesn't allow you to handle specimens in their holding tanks, ask them to pick up and show you the coral from all viewing angles.
And of course, choose a species that has a good track record in captivity. I would advise against non-photosynthetic corals unless you have the time, commitment, and experience to meet their nutritional requirements (a few of us qualify for these three criteria).
The vast majority of LPS care is fortunately not too demanding. They can be kept under PowerCompacts, T5s, VHOs, Metal Halides, or even normal output fluorescents for certain specimens (supplemental feedings may be required). LPS are less picky about water quality, but you should still aim to provide as clean an environment as possible, accomplished via the usual suspects: water changes, protein skimming, use of RO/DI for topoff water and saltwater mixing, not over-feeding.
Once again, know your coral before you buy it. Some LPS prefer to sit on the substrate while others are suspectible to infections if you put them on the sand. Some prefer stronger current; Some prefer high light; Some need feedings. As with any coral or fish you intend to keep, study its requirements first before purchasing. Impulse buying is one of the fundamental reasons for premature mortality.
And of course, choose a species that has a good track record in captivity. I would advise against non-photosynthetic corals unless you have the time, commitment, and experience to meet their nutritional requirements (a few of us qualify for these three criteria).
The vast majority of LPS care is fortunately not too demanding. They can be kept under PowerCompacts, T5s, VHOs, Metal Halides, or even normal output fluorescents for certain specimens (supplemental feedings may be required). LPS are less picky about water quality, but you should still aim to provide as clean an environment as possible, accomplished via the usual suspects: water changes, protein skimming, use of RO/DI for topoff water and saltwater mixing, not over-feeding.
Once again, know your coral before you buy it. Some LPS prefer to sit on the substrate while others are suspectible to infections if you put them on the sand. Some prefer stronger current; Some prefer high light; Some need feedings. As with any coral or fish you intend to keep, study its requirements first before purchasing. Impulse buying is one of the fundamental reasons for premature mortality.