Description
A popular LPS (Large Polyp Stony) coral known for its fleshy polyps and vibrant colors—reds, oranges, greens, blues, and multicolor patterns. Colonies form encrusting or mound-like structures with clearly defined individual heads. Often confused with Acanthastrea, but now classified under Micromussa (e.g., Micromussa lordhowensis).
Lighting
Low to moderate lighting
(Too much light can cause bleaching; colors pop under moderate intensity)
Placement (Aquarium Zone)
Lower to mid reef
Place on sandbed or low rockwork with some space around it
Temperature
24–27°C (75–81°F)
Salinity
1.024–1.026 SG
pH
8.1–8.4
Alkalinity
8–10 dKH
(Stable levels are more important than high levels)
Diet
Photosynthetic + supplemental feeding
Benefits from target feeding:
Mysis shrimp
Reef roids / coral foods
Finely chopped seafood
Feeds mainly at night when tentacles extend
Adult Size (up to)
Colony can grow 15–30+ cm (6–12+ inches) depending on conditions
Care Level
Beginner to intermediate
(Relatively hardy for an LPS coral)
Compatibility
Semi-aggressive (has short sweeper tentacles)
Reef-safe but needs space from other corals
Can sting nearby corals if placed too close
Compatible with most reef fish
