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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
Acropora, known as the crown jewel of the SPS world, is a genus highly sought after in reef aquaria for its abundance of species. It is recognized as one of the most challenging corals to maintain due to its sensitivity to water chemistry fluctuations and demanding flow and lighting requirements. Experienced hobbyists are often drawn to the intricate care needed for Acropora, with established aquariums of at least a year being highly beneficial for their longevity.
Demands and Hardiness
Acropora require meticulous attention to water chemistry, making them sensitive to changes in parameters. They thrive in setups with high water flow, necessitating strong movement for optimal health. The delicate nature of Acropora underscores the need for stable tank conditions and a well-established aquarium to support their intricate care needs.
Lighting
High lighting levels are essential for Acropora, with options such as high-output fluorescent bulbs (T5) or more intense lighting like metal halides proving beneficial. Acropora's coloration can be influenced by the type of lighting provided, with some specimens undergoing dramatic color changes based on tank conditions and light intensity.
Water Flow
Acropora thrives in environments with strong water movement, emphasizing the importance of maintaining robust flow within the aquarium. Adequate water flow ensures the health and well-being of Acropora colonies, supporting their growth and vitality in reef tank settings.
Feeding
While Acropora primarily rely on products from their zooxanthellae, direct feeding can be beneficial for their overall health. Liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton particles are suitable for feeding Acropora, with a variety of frozen fish foods serving as excellent meal options. Providing small, nutrient-rich foods that the polyps can easily ingest promotes the well-being of Acropora colonies.
Propagation
Acropora have been extensively propagated in captivity, making them a prime candidate for aquaculture efforts. The genus shows potential for sustainable harvests through controlled propagation methods, contributing to the conservation of wild populations.
Localization & Habitat
Acropora species are predominantly found in the Indo-Pacific region, including areas such as Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their natural habitat in these regions underscores the need for precise care and environmental conditions to mirror their native ecosystems for successful maintenance in aquaria.