More info
Datasheet
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Care Description | Moderate |
| Water Flow | Moderate |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.023-1.025 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description
The Red Candy Cap Coral, a type of Montipora coral, is a small polyp stony (SPS) coral known for its red to orange coloration and either plating or vase-like growth form. This coral's appearance is greatly influenced by water flow and lighting within the aquarium.
Demands and Hardiness
Montipora corals like the Red Candy Cap require a wide range of lighting fixtures, from power compacts, VHO, T-5's to intense metal halides, positioned accordingly in the tank to enhance color and growth. Along with appropriate lighting, supplementing with calcium and buffer products is vital to maintain calcium levels at 400-450 ppm and dKH at 8-12. Additionally, zooplankton additions contribute to its continued health.
Lighting
High lighting, such as metal halides, is beneficial for the Red Candy Cap Coral. Positioning these corals in various light intensities will impact their coloration. A gradual acclimation period may be needed when introducing intense lighting sources like metal halides due to potential color changes that can occur.
Water Flow
Moderate water flow is suitable for the Red Candy Cap Coral, although strong water movement is recommended. The optimal flow can aid in nutrient distribution and waste removal, promoting the coral's overall well-being.
Feeding
Acropora corals, like the Red Candy Cap, predominantly rely on zooxanthellae for nutrition but can also benefit from direct feeding. Feeding a mix of rotifer-based foods with vitamin additives and unsaturated fatty acids, in small particle sizes, ensures the polyps can readily consume the food for sustained health.
Propagation
Montipora corals, including the Red Candy Cap, have been extensively propagated in captivity and are excellent candidates for aquaculture. With continued efforts, achieving sustainable harvesting of these corals can be a feasible endeavor.
Localization & Habitat
The Red Candy Cap Coral belongs to the Acroporidae family and is commonly found in the islands of the Indo-Pacific region, such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. In these natural habitats, Acropora corals thrive within specific water conditions and ecological niches.