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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 among the most diverse SPS corals available in the marine aquarium trade, showcasing a wide array of shapes and colors. They are popular choices for SPS dominated aquariums and mixed reef tanks due to their captivating appearance. The Flower Petal Montipora, in particular, has a light green base with delicate blue polyps and a striking purple/blue growth rim.
Demands and Hardiness:
Montipora corals can be sensitive to fluctuations in tank parameters and require a demanding environment with high flow and intense lighting for optimal health and vibrant coloration. Adequate water movement is crucial to sweep away detritus and supply essential nutrients to the polyps, contributing to their overall well-being.
Lighting:
For optimal development and coloration, Montipora corals thrive under high-intensity lighting. Providing Metal Halide lighting, a large bank of high-output fluorescent lights, or LEDs is recommended. Proper lighting is essential as inadequate light exposure can lead to color fading. Similar to Acropora corals, Montipora may exhibit color changes based on the type of light they receive.
Water Flow:
Montipora corals flourish in environments with moderate to strong water flow. Reef hobbyists commonly keep Montipora in high flow aquariums with great success. The high water movement helps to remove debris from the coral's surface and ensures vital nutrients reach their polyps, promoting their overall health.
Feeding:
Montipora primarily rely on zooxanthellae products for nutrition but can also benefit from consuming phytoplankton and similarly sized microfauna present in the water column. Liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton particles ranging from 20um to 1mm are suitable for feeding Montipora. While they do not require frequent feeding, a light dusting of rotifers or phytoplankton may enhance their well-being.
Propagation:
Montipora corals have been extensively propagated in captivity and are ideal candidates for aquaculture. With proper techniques and dedication, achieving sustainable harvests of Montipora corals is foreseeable in the future.
Localization & Habitat:
Montipora corals are native to the Indo-Pacific region, commonly found around islands such as Fiji, Tonga, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef. Their wide distribution in these areas reflects their adaptability to varying marine conditions within the Indo-Pacific ecosystem.