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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 corals are considered the crown jewel of Small Polyp Stony (SPS) corals, boasting a large number of species. They are known for their intricate and branching structures, with vibrant colors and intricate polyps that add to their allure. Acropora are highly sought after in reef aquariums but are notoriously challenging to maintain long-term due to their sensitivity to water chemistry fluctuations.
Demands and Hardiness
Acropora require meticulous care in terms of water quality, flow, and lighting. These corals thrive in established aquariums and do best in systems that have been running for at least a year. They are particularly sensitive to changes in water parameters and demand stable conditions to flourish. Hobbyists often find that providing the ideal setup for Acropora can be a rewarding yet challenging endeavor.
Lighting
High lighting is crucial for the health and coloration of Acropora corals. They fare well under high-output fluorescent bulbs like T5s but may benefit from more intense options such as metal halides. Acropora's coloration is known to shift under different lighting conditions, with some colors transforming entirely based on the spectrum provided. Acclimating Acropora to intense lighting sources may require a gradual process to prevent stress.
Water Flow
Acropora thrive in environments with strong water movement. Adequate flow helps these corals acquire nutrients, expel waste, and maintain their delicate structures. Hobbyists should ensure proper water circulation within the aquarium to simulate natural reef conditions and promote the overall well-being of Acropora colonies.
Feeding
While Acropora primarily derive nutrients from their symbiotic zooxanthellae, direct feeding can also benefit their growth and coloration. Offering small, particle-sized foods like phytoplankton and zooplankton is essential for supplementing their diet. Frozen fish foods rich in vitamins and fatty acids can be beneficial, and feeding with a turkey baster is a common practice to target-feed individual coral polyps.
Propagation
Acropora corals have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them ideal candidates for aquaculture initiatives. Extensive efforts have been made to propagate Acropora species sustainably, reducing the reliance on wild harvests and contributing to coral conservation. With proper techniques and dedication, a self-sustaining population of Acropora can be established over time.
Localization & Habitat
Acropora corals are predominantly found in the Indo-Pacific region, including locations like Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. These corals inhabit shallow, clear waters with ample sunlight, thriving in diverse reef ecosystems. Their presence contributes significantly to the biodiversity and beauty of tropical marine environments.