Description
24K Gold Branching Hammer – Euphyllia paraancora
Euphyllia paraancora, known as the 24K Gold Branching Hammer, is one of the most prized and visually stunning LPS corals in the reef aquarium hobby. This ultra-premium morph glows with intense metallic gold coloration accented by subtle green or peach undertones, giving each polyp a liquid-gold appearance under actinic lighting. Its elegant, hammer-shaped tentacles sway gracefully in the current, creating a mesmerizing flow of color and movement. With proper care and placement, this coral becomes a true centerpiece that embodies both luxury and vibrancy.
Lighting: Moderate (100–180 PAR); thrives under blue-dominant LED or hybrid T5/LED systems that enhance its golden fluorescence
Flow: Moderate; prefers indirect, oscillating water movement that keeps tentacles in constant, gentle motion without causing retraction
Placement: Middle regions of the aquarium on stable rockwork; allow space between colonies to prevent aggression
Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C)
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–10 dKH
Calcium: 420–450 ppm
Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
Nutrients: Moderate (NO₃ 5–15 ppm, PO₄ 0.05–0.10 ppm); stable parameters maintain tissue health and fluorescence intensity
Feeding: Photosynthetic but benefits from weekly feeding with mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or fine LPS pellets to promote faster branching and deeper coloration
Aggression: High; extends long sweeper tentacles that can sting nearby corals—maintain at least 15 cm of clearance
Growth Rate: Moderate; forms branching colonies that can be fragged and propagated easily under stable reef conditions
Care Level: Intermediate – hardy but requires consistent alkalinity and gentle, stable flow for long-term health
Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; best housed among other Euphyllia species such as Frogspawn or Torch with adequate spacing to prevent tissue contact
