Description

Acropora Coral is the crown jewel of SPS (Small Polyp Stony) corals and one of the most prized and challenging coral genera in the reef-keeping hobby. With unmatched structural diversity, fast growth (under ideal conditions), and stunning coloration, Acropora spp. is a favorite among experienced aquarists looking to build a vibrant SPS-dominated reef tank.

🌟 Description

• Scientific Name: Acropora spp.

• Common Names: Acro, Staghorn Coral, Table Coral, Bottlebrush Coral (depending on growth form)

• Color Range: Neon green, blue, purple, pink, teal, yellow, orange, and multicolor—especially vibrant under blue LEDs.

• Growth Forms:

  • Staghorn – long, antler-like branches.

  • Tabletop – flat, spreading plates.

  • Bushy/Bottlebrush – tight, dense clusters.

  • Encrusting – base that spreads over rock.

🏝️ Natural Habitat

• Found in shallow reefs across the Indo-Pacific and Caribbean.

• Thrive in high-light, high-flow reef crests.

• Important reef builders in the wild.

🧪 Water Parameters

⚠️ Stability is critical. Even small parameter swings can lead to STN (Slow Tissue Necrosis) or RTN (Rapid Tissue Necrosis).

💡 Lighting

• High lighting – 250–400 PAR.

• T5, LED, or metal halide systems.

• Thrive under blue-heavy spectrum for coloration.

📌 Light acclimation is essential. Sudden increases can cause bleaching.

🌊 Water Flow

• Strong, random flow simulating natural reef currents.

• Use multiple powerheads or wavemakers to avoid dead zones.

• Flow keeps tissue oxygenated and prevents detritus buildup.

🧫 Feeding

• Primarily photosynthetic, but benefit from:

  • Amino acids

  • Reef roids or powdered coral foods

  • Live phytoplankton

  • Rotifers

• Feed 1–2x per week, especially in ultra-low nutrient systems.

🧽 Placement

✂️ Growth & Fragging

• Fast growth in ideal conditions.

• Frag by cutting branches between corallites with bone cutters.

• Mount securely and provide high flow/light to encourage recovery.

🧠 Common Challenges

✅ Pros

• Unmatched color diversity and structure.

• Fast grower in stable tanks.

• The ultimate showpiece coral for mature reef systems.

❌ Cons

• Demanding care – not beginner-friendly.

• Susceptible to disease and pests.

• Sensitive to even minor water parameter swings.

🧪 Pro Tip: Stability > Perfection

Even more than perfect numbers, keep parameters stable over time. Use dosing pumps or calcium reactors to maintain consistent alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium.

Acropora corals are the pinnacle of SPS reefkeeping—if you’re ready for the challenge, they reward you with stunning displays. Want help picking beginner-friendly Acro types or tips for starting an SPS-dominated reef?