Description
Montipora hirsuta – Montipora hirsuta
Montipora hirsuta, commonly known as the Hirsuta Montipora, is a visually intricate small-polyp stony (SPS) coral prized for its fine, velvety texture and delicate growth form. Characterized by its “hairy” surface—created by extended polyps that give it a fuzzy appearance—this species exhibits a unique blend of branching and plating growth, often encrusting outward before developing upward, finger-like structures. Coloration varies from rich emerald green and golden brown to rare blue and purple morphs that fluoresce brightly under actinic lighting. When mature, M. hirsuta forms dense, organic colonies that bring both structure and soft motion to SPS-dominated aquariums.
Lighting: Moderate to high (180–300 PAR); colors and surface texture are most pronounced under blue-dominant LED or hybrid T5/LED systems
Flow: Moderate to strong; thrives in multidirectional, turbulent flow that keeps polyps clean and promotes even growth
Placement: Middle to upper regions of the aquarium; ensure open space for lateral encrusting and vertical growth, avoiding shading from larger colonies
Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C)
Salinity: 1.025–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH; stable parameters are critical to prevent bleaching or tip loss
Calcium: 420–460 ppm
Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
Nutrients: Low to moderate (NO₃ 2–10 ppm, PO₄ 0.02–0.08 ppm); slightly nutrient-rich water enhances polyp extension and tissue coloration
Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic but benefits from occasional broadcast feeding with reef roids, microplankton, or amino acid supplements to promote tissue density
Aggression: Low; non-stinging but can overgrow slower encrusting species through rapid spreading
Growth Rate: Fast; encrusts rockwork rapidly and transitions to vertical growth under consistent lighting and flow
Care Level: Intermediate – stable conditions and strong flow yield optimal color and texture development
Compatibility: Peaceful; excellent for SPS-dominated systems, complementing plating Montipora capricornis and branching Acropora species with its fuzzy, living texture
