How to Care for Acanthastrea Lordhowensis in a Reef Tank

Acanthastrea lordhowensis, also known as the Acan Lord or simply Lord, is a popular coral species that can thrive in a well-maintained reef tank. If you're considering adding this colorful and hardy coral to your aquarium, it's important to know how to care for it properly. In this blog, we'll cover the basics of Acan Lord care, including water parameters, lighting, feeding, and more.

Water Parameters:

One of the most important aspects of caring for Acanthastrea lordhowensis is maintaining stable water parameters. This coral species can be fairly tolerant of a range of water conditions, but it does best in an aquarium with consistent and high-quality water. Here are the recommended parameters for Acan Lords:

• Temperature: 75-80°F (24-27°C)
• Salinity: 1.024-1.026
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Alkalinity: 8-11 dKH
• Calcium: 400-450 ppm
• Magnesium: 1,250-1,350 ppm
• Nitrate: <5 ppm
• Phosphate: <0.03 ppm

It's important to monitor these parameters regularly using a reliable test kit and make adjustments as needed to keep them within the recommended ranges.

Lighting:

Acanthastrea lordhowensis requires moderate to high lighting to thrive. This coral species contains symbiotic zooxanthellae algae that provide it with energy through photosynthesis. Without adequate lighting, the Acan Lord may not receive enough energy to sustain itself. If you're unsure of how much lighting your Acanthastrea lordhowensis needs, consult with a knowledgeable aquarium expert or follow the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific lighting system.

Feeding:

In addition to photosynthesis, Acanthastrea lordhowensis also requires supplemental feeding to maintain optimal health. This coral species is a mixotroph, which means it can both photosynthesize and consume food particles. The Acan Lord can be fed a variety of foods, including small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and chopped seafood. You can also target feed your Acanthastrea lordhowensis using a specialized coral feeding product.

Water Flow:

Acanthastrea lordhowensis prefers moderate water flow in the aquarium. This coral species can become damaged if exposed to strong or turbulent water flow, so it's important to place it in an area with gentle water movement. You can also use a powerhead or wavemaker to create a gentle flow around your Acanthastrea lordhowensis.

Compatibility:

Acanthastrea lordhowensis is generally a peaceful coral that can coexist with a variety of other corals and fish in a reef tank. However, it's important to avoid placing it too close to other corals that may sting or damage it. You should also avoid adding aggressive or territorial fish that may harass or nip at the Acan Lord.

In Conclusion:

Acanthastrea lordhowensis is a beautiful and hardy coral species that can add color and interest to a reef tank. By following the tips outlined in this blog, you can provide your Acanthastrea lordhowensis with the proper care it needs to thrive in your aquarium. Remember to monitor water parameters regularly, provide adequate lighting and feeding, and ensure gentle water flow around your coral. With a little care and attention, your Acanthastrea lordhowensis can grow and flourish in your reef tank for years to come.