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| Care Description | Acropora are the crown jewel of the SPS world. No other genus has the sheer number of species as Acropora and when reef aquarists talk about the requirements to keep an SPS system, they are talking specifically about the care requirements of Acropora. Having said that, Acropora are one of the most difficult corals to keep. They are highly sensitive to changes in water chemistry and require the most in terms of flow and light. Many experienced hobbyists have struggled keeping Acropora long term, but that is part of the attraction to this coral. Lastly, Acropora benefit greatly from a well established aquarium, preferably one that has been set up at least for 1 year. Please see below for additional care tips for Acropora. |
| Water Flow | Strong |
| 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
The Acropora genus is considered the crown jewel of the Small Polyp Stony (SPS) coral world, boasting the largest number of species. Acropora corals are characterized by their thin, sturdy, smooth branches and nodes, each capped with a single polyp. The Glow Stick Acropora lokani, in particular, stands out with its vibrant neon green coloration, making it a hardy and fast-growing variety.
Demands and Hardiness
Acropora corals are notoriously challenging to keep, as they are highly sensitive to fluctuations in water chemistry. They have demanding requirements in terms of water flow and lighting, thriving in well-established aquariums that have been running for at least a year. Despite the difficulties associated with their care, the allure of Acropora lies in the challenge they present to experienced hobbyists.
Lighting
High lighting is crucial for the health and vibrancy of Acropora corals. They can be maintained under high-output fluorescent bulbs (T5), but may benefit from more intense options like metal halide (MH) lighting. The coloration of Acropora is strongly influenced by the type and intensity of light provided, with some specimens exhibiting dramatic color shifts based on tank conditions.
Water Flow
Acropora corals thrive in environments with strong water movement. Maintaining a robust water flow within the aquarium is recommended to simulate their natural habitat conditions and promote optimal health and growth.
Feeding
While Acropora primarily rely on the products of their zooxanthellae for nutrition, they can also benefit from direct feeding. Suitable foods include liquid and powdery options, such as phytoplankton, zooplankton, and frozen fish foods rich in essential nutrients. Feeding small, appropriately sized food particles directly to the polyps can enhance the well-being of Acropora colonies.
Propagation
The Acropora genus has been extensively propagated in captivity and is a prime candidate for aquaculture initiatives. With ongoing efforts, sustainable harvesting of Acropora corals can be achieved, reducing pressure on wild populations.
Localization & Habitat
Acropora corals are naturally found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting islands such as Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and Australia's Great Barrier Reef. Their presence in these diverse marine ecosystems underscores their adaptability to varying environmental conditions.