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Datasheet
| Care Description | Hammer corals are an iconic large polyp stony coral (LPS) that has been a staple in the hobby for generations. They are found all throughout the Pacific reefs and come in a variety of colors and growth forms. Hammer corals sometimes grow in a wall formation while other hammers grow in a branching formation. Either variety makes an excellent show piece coral for a reef aquarium however the branching varieties tend to grow more quickly. Please see below for additional care tips for hammer corals. |
| Water Flow | Moderate to 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
Hammer corals, belonging to the Euphyllia genus, are large polyp stony corals (LPS) that are widely recognized in the aquarium hobby. They are native to the Pacific reefs and are known for their vibrant colors and varied growth forms, with some growing in wall formations and others in branching structures.
Demands and Hardiness
Hammer corals, like other Euphyllia species, do not display aggressive feeding behavior, relying heavily on zooxanthellae for nutrition. They benefit from direct feeding, making it essential to provide appropriate food, such as Mysis shrimp and small pellets, in the size range of 6 to 13mm. They are hardy corals that can thrive under moderate to strong water flow, which helps in maintaining their health and enhances their aesthetic appeal.
Lighting
These corals do not require intense lighting compared to some other coral species. They can be kept under normal output fluorescents, although they may extend more under subdued lighting. However, placing them under stronger lighting can often bring out more vibrant and attractive colors in the corals.
Water Flow
Moderate to strong water movement is recommended for Hammer corals. The swaying motion induced by proper water flow not only benefits the corals' health but also adds visual appeal to the aquarium. Adequate water flow ensures that the corals receive nutrients and oxygen while preventing sediment buildup.
Feeding
While Hammer corals primarily rely on the products of their zooxanthellae for nutrition, they can benefit from direct feeding. Providing them with suitable food sources like Mysis shrimp and pellets is crucial, especially considering their less aggressive feeding behavior compared to other LPS corals.
Propagation
Hammer corals have been successfully propagated in captivity and are considered excellent candidates for aquaculture. However, their relatively slow growth rate, especially in wall formations, presents a challenge for large-scale commercial aquaculture. Branching varieties tend to propagate more efficiently, and efforts are ongoing to establish sustainable harvesting practices.
Localization & Habitat
Hammer corals are commonly found in tropical waters across the Pacific, particularly in regions like Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. The diverse habitats in which they thrive contribute to the wide variety of colorations and growth forms observed in Hammer corals within the aquarium trade.