WYSIWYG Acropora sp. – A21

Acropora corals, known for their vibrant colors and branching structures, are a popular choice for reef aquariums. However, they are considered challenging corals to keep, requiring a stable and well-established reef tank with specific water parameters, high lighting, and strong water flow.
Here’s a more detailed look at Acropora in an aquarium:
1. Tank Setup and Water Quality:

• Established Reef Tank: Acropora thrive in mature reef tanks with a well-established biota and stable water chemistry.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 75-82F (24-28C).
  • Salinity: 1.025.
  • pH: 8.0-8.4.
  • Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH.
  • Calcium: 400-450 ppm.
  • Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm.
  • Nitrates: <5 ppm.
  • Phosphates: <0.01 ppm.
• Water Changes: Regular water changes are crucial to maintain water quality and keep nitrates and phosphates low.

2. Lighting:

• High Intensity: Acropora require bright lighting, typically provided by T-5s, powerful LEDs, or metal halides.
• Lighting Spectrum: Acropora corals benefit from a broad spectrum of light that includes blue, red, and green wavelengths.

3. Water Flow:

• Strong Flow: Acropora corals thrive in strong, intermittent water flow, which helps distribute nutrients and remove waste.
• Wavemakers and Powerheads: Use wavemakers and multiple powerheads to create consistent and varied water flow.

4. Feeding:

• Zooxanthellae: Acropora corals are photosynthetic, relying on symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) for a major portion of their nutrition.
• Additional Nutrients: They can benefit from the addition of phytoplankton and zooplankton, though not always necessary.
• Feeding Frequency: Avoid overfeeding, as it can lead to poor water quality and algae growth.

5. Placement:

• High in the Tank: Acropora typically thrive when placed in the middle to upper portions of the aquarium.
• Spacing: Provide ample space between Acropora colonies to prevent aggressive interactions.

6. Supplements:

• Essential Elements: Calcium, strontium, iodine, and magnesium supplements may be needed to maintain optimal water parameters and support Acropora growth.

7. Acropora Care Tips:

• Quarantine: Quarantine new Acropora fragments for 2-4 weeks to monitor for pests and diseases before introducing them to the main tank.
• Dips: Dip new arrivals in a coral dip to help prevent the introduction of pests.
• Patience: Be patient, as it can take time for Acropora to adapt and thrive in a new environment.
• Monitor for RTN: Be aware of Rapid Tissue Necrosis (RTN), a common problem with Acropora corals.

8. Acropora Compatibility:

• Aggression: Acropora can be aggressive to other corals, so ensure adequate spacing and consider placing them in areas where they won’t come into contact with other corals.
• Tank Mates: Choose tank mates that are compatible with the specific Acropora species you are keeping and avoid those that may be overly aggressive.