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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, available in a wide range of shapes and colors, making them popular in SPS dominated aquarium setups and mixed reef tanks. The Sunset Montipora is an encrusting variety with an intriguing color combination of orange base and neon green polyps.
Demands and Hardiness:
Montipora corals require stable tank parameters as they can be sensitive to changes, demanding both high flow and intense lighting for optimal health and color vibrancy. They thrive in setups with moderate to strong water flow, aiding in nutrient delivery and detritus removal.
Lighting:
For Montipora corals like the Sunset Montipora, intense lighting is crucial for maintaining vibrant colors and overall well-being. Recommended lighting options include Metal Halide, high-output fluorescent lights, or LEDs to prevent color fading and promote healthy growth. Different light spectra can induce color variations in Montipora, similar to Acropora species.
Water Flow:
Moderate to high water movement is advised for Montipora corals, mimicking their natural reef habitats. This strong water flow helps in sweeping away debris from the coral surface and delivering essential nutrients to their polyps, ensuring their health and vitality.
Feeding:
Montipora corals primarily rely on photosynthesis from their zooxanthellae, but they can also benefit from supplemental feeding. Offering liquid or powdery foods containing phytoplankton and zooplankton particles can enhance their nutritional intake, although they do not require frequent feeding in a well-established aquarium.
Propagation:
Montipora corals, including the Sunset Montipora, have been successfully propagated in captivity, making them excellent candidates for aquaculture. Through sustainable harvesting practices, it is feasible to continue increasing the availability of captive-bred Montipora corals in the hobbyist market.
Localization & Habitat:
In the wild, Montipora corals are commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, including areas around Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the iconic Great Barrier Reef. Their wide distribution reflects their adaptability to various reef environments within this geographical range.