More info
Datasheet
| Care Description | Montipora are one of the most diverse SPS corals. They come in a wide variety of shapes and colors and have been a staple in SPS dominated aquariums as well as mixed reef tanks. As for care, they can be sensitive to changes in tank parameters as well as demanding of both high flow and high light for peak health and coloration. Please see below for more care tips for Montipora. |
| Water Flow | Moderate - 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
Montipora corals are known for their diversity, displaying a wide array of shapes and colors. The Auburn Montipora specifically features a unique craggy texture and a uniform Auburn coloration. These encrusting corals are fast-growing and fragment well, making them a popular choice for SPS dominated aquariums and mixed reef tanks. They are typically found in the Indo-Pacific region, including areas around Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef.
Demands and Hardiness
Montipora corals are sensitive to changes in tank parameters, making stable conditions crucial for their well-being. They have high demands for both strong water flow and intense lighting to maintain peak health and vibrant coloration. These corals thrive in environments with moderate to high water movement, as it helps remove detritus and deliver essential nutrients to their polyps.
Lighting
Montipora corals, including the Auburn variety, require high-intensity lighting for optimal growth and coloration. Providing Metal Halide lighting, a bank of high-output fluorescent lights, or LEDs is recommended to support their light-loving nature. Inadequate lighting can cause the colors of Montipora to fade, and like other SPS corals, they can exhibit dramatic color changes based on the light spectrum they receive.
Water Flow
Montipora corals thrive in aquariums with moderate to high water flow. Reef hobbyists often keep them in high flow setups with great success. The strong water movement helps in clearing away debris from the coral's surface and ensures the transport of essential nutrients to their polyps, contributing to their overall health and vitality.
Feeding
Montipora corals heavily rely on the products of their zooxanthellae for nutrition. While they primarily feed on phytoplankton and microfauna present in the water column, they can benefit from the occasional light dusting of rotifers or phytoplankton as supplemental food sources. Liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton particles of 20um-1mm in size are suitable for feeding Montipora.
Propagation
Montipora corals, including the Auburn Montipora, have been extensively propagated in captivity, making them excellent candidates for aquaculture. With proper breeding practices, it is possible to achieve sustainable harvesting of these corals over time, contributing to their conservation and availability in the aquarium trade.