Description
Euphyllia ancora, known as the Wall Hammer Coral, is a spectacular large-polyp stony (LPS) coral renowned for its sweeping, continuous “wall” growth form and the unmistakable hammer- or anchor-shaped tentacle tips that define the Euphyllia genus. Unlike its branching relative Euphyllia parancora, the wall variety forms massive, undivided skeletons that create a dramatic, flowing appearance. Its long, fleshy polyps undulate gracefully in the current, revealing hues of fluorescent green, golden bronze, mint, or lavender, depending on the morph and lighting.
Origin: Indo-Pacific – Indonesia, Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef
Depth: 5–35 m (15–115 ft)
Lighting: Moderate – excels under blue or actinic lighting, which enhances its fluorescent highlights
Flow: Moderate and indirect – sufficient to keep polyps gently moving; avoid strong, direct currents that cause tissue stress
Placement: Lower to mid-levels; provide generous spacing from other corals to prevent stinging
Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Feeding: Optional but beneficial – accepts small, meaty foods such as mysis, enriched brine shrimp, and coral-specific diets
Aggression Level: High – long sweeper tentacles can damage nearby corals at night
Growth Rate: Moderate – grows outward as a solid wall rather than branching
Care Level: Intermediate – requires stable conditions and careful handling due to its delicate, continuous skeleton
