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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 coral world, stands out as the most extensive genus in the realm of reef aquariums. Among all SPS corals, the care requirements often discussed by reef aquarists specifically pertain to Acropora due to its sheer diversity and beauty. However, it is noteworthy that Acropora is recognized as one of the most challenging corals to maintain, given its high sensitivity to fluctuations in water chemistry, demanding needs for flow, and light preferences. Keeping Acropora long-term poses a significant challenge even for experienced hobbyists, adding to its allure as a prized coral species. Ideally, Acropora thrives best in a well-established aquarium, preferably one that has been operational for a minimum of one year.
Demands and Hardiness
Setting up an environment for Acropora requires meticulous attention to detail, maintaining stable water parameters within the range of 8-12 dKH for alkalinity, 8.1-8.4 for pH, and specific gravity between 1.023-1.026. The temperature should be maintained between 22.2-25.6°C. Acropora's resilience is closely tied to the quality of water flow within the aquarium, with a strong current recommended to mimic its natural habitat conditions.
Lighting
Acropora thrives under high lighting conditions, benefiting from sources like high output fluorescent bulbs (T5) or more intense options such as metal halides (MH), which can induce color changes in the coral. Acclimating Acropora to intense lighting, especially metal halides, may require a gradual process, as the coral is known for showcasing dramatic color shifts based on tank conditions, particularly the lighting provided.
Water Flow
Maintaining strong water movement is crucial for the well-being of Acropora, mimicking the natural turbulent conditions it thrives in. Adequate water flow aids in promoting nutrient exchange and waste removal, essential for the coral's health and growth.
Feeding
While Acropora primarily relies on the products of its zooxanthellae for nutrition, supplementing its diet through direct feeding can be beneficial. Feeding a mix of small-sized meaty rotifer-based foods with vitamin additives and HUFA (highly unsaturated fatty acids) can support the coral's nutritional needs. Using a turkey baster to spray the food on Acropora colonies is a practical feeding method.
Propagation
The Acropora genus has been extensively propagated in captivity, making it a prime candidate for aquaculture efforts. The sustainable harvesting of Acropora through propagation endeavors holds promise for conserving and expanding coral populations over time.
Localization & Habitat
Acropora species are predominantly found in the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting islands such as Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the iconic Great Barrier Reef. These diverse coral colonies thrive in the nutrient-rich waters of the Indo-Pacific, showcasing an array of colors and forms that add vibrancy to reef ecosystems.