Coral Care Info Acropora

Natural Habitat and Location in the Wild

Acropora corals are widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific, with significant populations in Australia (Great Barrier Reef), Indonesia, Fiji, the Red Sea, the Maldives, and the Caribbean. These corals are typically found in shallow reef crests and slopes, where they receive intense sunlight and strong water movement. Their growth helps build and sustain coral reef ecosystems, making them essential for marine biodiversity.

Why Choose Acropora for Your Reef Tank?

• Incredible Growth Forms – Branching, plating, and tabling structures create stunning reefscapes.
• Wide Range of Colors – Available in neon blues, purples, greens, and pinks.
• Essential for Advanced Reef Tanks – A top choice for experienced aquarists looking for a challenge.
• Fast Growth Under Ideal Conditions – Can quickly dominate a reef tank when provided optimal care.

Optimal Water Parameters

Acropora is highly sensitive to fluctuations, requiring precise water conditions:

Daily monitoring is recommended, as Acropora is prone to RTN (Rapid Tissue Necrosis) if water conditions become unstable.

Tank Size and Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 40 gallons or larger for stable water parameters.
• Placement: Requires high, well-lit areas of the tank with strong flow.
• Rockwork Considerations: Secure frags or colonies on stable rock structures to accommodate rapid growth.

Lighting Requirements

Acropora requires intense lighting to maintain its color and growth rate.

• PAR Range: 250-400 PAR
• Lighting Type: High-output LED, metal halides, or T5 hybrid fixtures.
• Lighting Schedule: 10-12 hours per day, with gradual intensity changes to simulate sunrise and sunset.

Water Flow and Circulation

• Strong, turbulent water flow is essential for nutrient exchange and preventing detritus buildup.
• Randomized flow patterns created by wave makers and gyres simulate natural reef conditions.
• Avoid direct laminar flow, which can cause tissue damage.

Feeding and Nutrition

While Acropora derives energy from photosynthesis via its zooxanthellae, it benefits from additional nutrient sources.

• Preferred Foods: Phytoplankton, amino acids, zooplankton, and liquid coral foods.
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times per week improves coloration and polyp extension.
• Best Feeding Method: Broadcast feeding ensures even nutrient distribution.

Tank Mates and Compatibility

• Safe Companions: Clownfish, tangs, gobies, wrasses, and peaceful reef-safe invertebrates.
• Caution With: Other SPS corals—Acropora grows aggressively and may outcompete nearby corals.
• Avoid: LPS corals with long sweeper tentacles (e.g., Torch, Hammer, Frogspawn) that may sting Acropora.

Growth Rate and Propagation

• Fast growth rate, with branches extending several inches per year under ideal conditions.
• Fragging Method: Use coral cutters or a bandsaw to create small branch fragments, then glue them to frag plugs or rockwork.

Common Diseases and How to Prevent Them

• RTN (Rapid Tissue Necrosis) – Often caused by sudden parameter swings; maintain stable conditions.
• STN (Slow Tissue Necrosis) – Can be linked to low nutrients or alkalinity fluctuations.
• Acropora Eating Flatworms (AEFW) – Dip new frags in coral-safe treatments before adding them to the tank.

Handling and Acclimation

• Drip acclimation is highly recommended due to Acropora's sensitivity.
• Minimize exposure to air when moving Acropora, as tissue damage can occur.

Maintenance and Cleaning

• Perform weekly water changes (10-15%) to maintain nutrient balance.
• Regularly clean pumps and wave makers to ensure proper flow.
• Test alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium daily for stability.

Signs of Stress and How to Address Them

• Faded or browned-out coloration – Usually due to low light or excessive nutrients.
• White tips on branches – May indicate healthy growth or beginning of RTN/STN.
• Receding tissue – Check for pests, water parameter swings, or chemical warfare from nearby corals.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Color Fading – Increase light intensity and adjust nutrient levels.
• Sudden Tissue Loss (RTN/STN) – Check for parameter swings, frag stress, or bacterial infections.
• Algae Growth on Acropora – Reduce phosphate and nitrate levels with better filtration.