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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 family Euphyllia, are large polyp stony corals (LPS) commonly found in Pacific reefs. They exhibit a variety of colors and growth forms, with some growing in wall formations while others in branching formations. Known for their iconic appearance, hammer corals are popular choices for reef aquariums due to their captivating display.
Demands and Hardiness
Hammer corals, such as the Indo Purple Tip Hammer variety, require a moderate to strong water flow in an aquarium setup to mimic their natural habitat. They are relatively hardy corals and can adapt well to different lighting conditions, thriving under normal output fluorescents. However, they may exhibit more vibrant colors when placed under stronger lighting. These corals benefit from both the products of their zooxanthellae and direct feeding, although they may not feed as aggressively as other LPS corals.
Lighting
Hammers, Torches, and Frogspawn corals do not demand high light levels and can be maintained under moderate lighting conditions. While they can acclimate to normal output fluorescents, they may display more vivid colors under stronger lighting. Adjusting the lighting intensity can potentially impact the extension and aesthetics of hammer corals in an aquarium setting.
Water Flow
Moderate to strong water movement is recommended for hammer corals in an aquarium. The swaying motion induced by adequate water flow not only benefits the health of the coral but also enhances its visual appeal. This type of LPS coral thrives in environments with proper water circulation, providing favorable conditions for growth and well-being.
Feeding
Hammer corals, including the Indo Purple Tip Hammer, primarily feed on small crustaceans like Mysis Shrimp and pellets ranging from 6 to 13mm. While they rely on zooxanthellae for nutrition, direct feeding can supplement their diet and overall health. Ensuring the appropriate food source for hammer corals is crucial, as they may not actively consume food compared to other LPS corals.
Propagation
Hammer corals have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them an ideal candidate for aquaculture. While branching varieties are more favorable for propagation due to their faster growth rate compared to wall varieties, challenges remain in achieving widespread commercial aquaculture of these corals. Efforts are ongoing to establish sustainable harvesting practices for hammer corals to support conservation and availability in the aquarium trade.
Localization & Habitat
Hammer corals can be found throughout tropical waters in the Pacific, with harvesting taking place in regions such as Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. These corals thrive in reef environments, showcasing their beauty and adaptability in diverse marine ecosystems. By understanding their natural habitat and requirements, aquarists can create enriching environments for hammer corals in captivity.