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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, known as the crown jewel of the SPS (small-polyped stony) coral world, boasts the largest number of species among coral genera. Reef aquarists often refer to the care requirements of Acropora when discussing SPS system maintenance. These corals are highly prized yet notoriously challenging to keep due to their sensitivity to water chemistry changes and demanding needs for light and water flow. While some experienced hobbyists struggle with long-term care, the allure of Acropora lies in their delicate beauty and requirements. They thrive best in well-established aquariums, preferably ones that have been set up for at least a year.
Demands and Hardiness
Acropora demand meticulous care, including strict water quality maintenance and stable parameters. They are highly sensitive creatures, requiring optimal flow and intense lighting to thrive. Despite being challenging to keep, their delicate nature contributes to their appeal among experienced aquarists seeking a rewarding challenge.
Lighting
Acropora flourish under high lighting conditions, making them suitable for placement under high output fluorescent bulbs (T5) or more intense options like metal halide (MH) bulbs. Their coloration can vary depending on the lighting provided, and they may require a gradual acclimation period to adjust to intense lighting sources.
Water Flow
Thriving with strong water movement, Acropora corals benefit from turbulent flows within the aquarium. Ensuring adequate water flow helps simulate their natural habitats and promotes nutrient exchange and waste removal, contributing to their overall health and vitality.
Feeding
While Acropora primarily rely on products produced by their zooxanthellae, they also benefit from direct feeding. Suitable food options include liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton particles in the 20um-1mm range. Feeding a mix of meaty rotifer-based foods with vitamin additives and highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA) can provide essential nutrients for these corals.
Propagation
Acropora have been extensively propagated in captivity, making them excellent candidates for aquaculture. With continued efforts, sustainable harvesting of Acropora species can be achieved over time, contributing to conservation and reducing collection pressure on wild populations.
Localization & Habitat
Natively found in the Indo-Pacific region, including areas like Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef, Acropora species thrive in warm tropical waters abundant with light and strong water currents. Their natural habitats feature diverse coral reef ecosystems, where they play vital ecological roles in supporting reef biodiversity and overall ecosystem health.