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Datasheet
| Care Description | Acanthastrea as a genus got considerably smaller recently when the Acanthastrea lordhowensis got reclassified as a Micromussa lordhowensis. That leaves the echinata and bowerbanki as the most commonly seen species of Acans in the reef keeping hobby. Acanthastrea bowerbanki have the largest polyps of any Acans. These Acans do not have any special care requirements however they have a strong sting so it is advisable to give them plenty of space in your aquascape. Please see below for additional care tips for Acans. |
| Water Flow | Low - Moderate |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.023-1.026 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
Acanthastrea echinata, also known as Clear Water Acanthastrea echinata, is a colorful coral species with a striking combination of green and minty blue hues. It belongs to the Acanthastrea genus and is one of the commonly seen species in the reef-keeping hobby, alongside Acanthastrea bowerbanki and Acanthastrea lordhowensis (now Micromussa lordhowensis).
Demands and Hardiness
Acanthastrea echinata does not have specific care requirements, but it possesses strong stinging capabilities, necessitating ample space in the aquascape to prevent interference with neighboring organisms. It thrives in a low to medium flow area to avoid stress and promote full extension. Feeding is crucial for long-term health, with a preference for medium to large-sized pellets like Mysis and Krill, along with a mix of meaty foods such as shrimp, fish, and squid enriched with vitamins and fatty acids.
Lighting
This coral species can adapt to various lighting conditions, from dim to medium-high. Acanthastrea echinata displays dramatic color changes depending on the light intensity provided, though this alteration primarily impacts aesthetics rather than overall health.
Water Flow
Maintaining a low to moderate water flow is recommended for Acanthastrea echinata to prevent stress and promote optimal extension. Lower flow rates facilitate feeding opportunities, contributing significantly to the coral's well-being.
Feeding
Feeding Acanthastrea echinata with a diverse array of frozen fish foods ensures its sustained health. The presence of feeding tentacles, even during the daytime, is considered a positive indicator of the coral's good health status.
Propagation
Successful fragmentation has been achieved with Acanthastrea species, including Acanthastrea echinata. The same care practices for Micromussa lordhowensis apply to Acanthastrea echinata, facilitating efficient propagation in a reef aquarium setting.
Localization & Habitat
Acanthastrea echinata is predominantly found around the Indopacific islands, including Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef, with the species commonly originating from Australia.