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Datasheet
| 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
Acropora corals are considered the crown jewel of the Small Polyp Stony (SPS) coral world, with the genus boasting a myriad of species. They are notoriously sensitive to changes in water chemistry, demanding meticulous care in terms of flow and lighting. Although challenging to maintain, Acropora's allure lies in their vibrant colors and intricate growth patterns.
Demands and Hardiness
Acropora corals require a well-established aquarium, preferably running for at least a year, to thrive. They are highly sensitive to fluctuations in water parameters, necessitating stable conditions. With a preference for strong water flow, Acropora's health and growth are closely tied to the quality of circulation within the tank.
Lighting
Thriving under high lighting conditions, Acropora can be sustained under high-output fluorescent bulbs like T5 but may benefit from more intense lighting sources such as metal halides (MH). As light intensity directly influences coloration, Acropora may exhibit variations in pigmentation based on the type and strength of lighting provided.
Water Flow
Strong water movement is vital for Acropora colonies, ensuring the efficient removal of waste and facilitating nutrient uptake. Adequate water flow also helps prevent detritus buildup, reducing the risk of algae growth and enhancing overall coral health.
Feeding
While Acropora primarily rely on photosynthesis through their symbiotic zooxanthellae, they can also benefit from direct feeding. Offering a mix of small, nutrient-rich foods like rotifer-based options fortified with vitamins and fatty acids can supplement their nutritional needs. Care must be taken to ensure food sizes are small enough for polyps to ingest effectively.
Propagation
Acropora species have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them a promising candidate for aquaculture efforts. With extensive propagation experience, it is feasible to achieve sustainable harvesting practices for Acropora corals, reducing pressure on wild populations.
Localization & Habitat
Acropora corals are commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, including areas like Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their natural habitats are characterized by clear, nutrient-rich waters with bright lighting conditions, reflecting the care requirements needed to emulate their native environment effectively.