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Datasheet
| Care Description | Micromussa lordhowensis was formerly known as Acanthastrea lordhowensis and share the same care requirements as most Acanthastrea. Space should be provided between these corals and their neighbors as that have a powerful sting. Please see below for additional care tips for Micromussa. |
| Water Flow | Low - Moderate |
| 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
Micromussa lordhowensis, previously known as Acanthastrea lordhowensis, shares similar care requirements with most Acanthastrea corals. To prevent interference from their powerful sting, adequate spacing should be maintained between Micromussa colonies and neighboring corals.
Demands and Hardiness
Micromussa lordhowensis thrives in aquarium setups with low to high lighting conditions. They are notably responsive to light, showcasing dramatic color variations in response to changes in lighting. While they do not require high water flow, a moderate flow is recommended to prevent detritus buildup. During feeding, it is beneficial to temporarily reduce flow to facilitate coral feeding.
Lighting
Micromussa corals are highly light-sensitive, with color changes occurring rapidly in response to varying light intensities. They exhibit a significant ability to alter their coloration, transitioning from red to yellow shades within a mere 24-hour period.
Water Flow
Maintaining low to moderate water flow is ideal for Micromussa lordhowensis. Sufficient flow ensures cleanliness by preventing detritus accumulation, especially when placed at the tank's bottom. Adjusting flow during feeding sessions allows the coral to capture food efficiently from the water column.
Feeding
Micromussa corals can be nourished with meaty foods such as mysis or krill shrimp. It is essential to avoid overfeeding dry coral pellets to prevent potential coral damage. Moderation is key, with recommended feeding practices involving a mix of frozen shrimp or high-quality coral pellet food.
Propagation
While Micromussa can be successfully propagated through fragmentation, asexual reproduction is a slow process due to their relatively slow growth rate. Efforts to propagate these corals can contribute significantly to increasing their availability in the market.
Localization & Habitat
Micromussa corals are commonly found across the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting islands such as Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Most Micromussa specimens available in the aquarium trade originate from Indonesia or Australia.