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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 highly diverse SPS corals known for their wide range of shapes and colors, often serving as a staple in SPS-dominated aquariums and mixed reef tanks. The Mystic Sunset Montipora, resembling a Superman Montipora with reverse coloration, features a red body and blue polyps, with polyps that are half blue and half brown in a crescent shape.
Demands and Hardiness
Montipora corals are sensitive to changes in tank parameters and require high flow and intense lighting for optimal health and vivid coloration. They thrive in high flow aquariums, benefiting from moderate to strong water movement that helps clear detritus and deliver essential nutrients to their polyps.
Lighting
Montipora corals thrive in intense lighting conditions, with Metal Halide, high output fluorescent, or LED lighting recommended for vibrant coloration and overall well-being. Inadequate lighting can cause the colors of Montipora to fade, and like other SPS corals, Montipora can exhibit significant color changes based on the light spectrum provided.
Water Flow
Moderate to high water movement is ideal for Montipora corals, with strong water flow aiding in detritus removal and nutrient delivery to the polyps. Keeping Montipora in high flow aquariums has been successful for reef hobbyists, contributing to the corals' health and vitality.
Feeding
Montipora corals primarily rely on their zooxanthellae for nutrition, occasionally supplementing their diet with phytoplankton and microfauna in the water column. Feeding Montipora liquid and powdery foods containing Phytoplankton and Zooplankton particles can support their nutritional needs, although they generally do not require frequent feeding.
Propagation
Montipora corals, including the Mystic Sunset Montipora, have been extensively propagated in captivity and are suitable candidates for aquaculture. With proper care and propagation efforts, a sustainable harvest of Montipora corals can be achieved over time.
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 habitats reflects their adaptability to various environmental conditions within the Indo-Pacific marine ecosystems.