Description
Acropora is one of the most diverse and popular groups of SPS corals in the marine aquarium hobby, prized for its intricate branching, tabling, plating, and encrusting growth forms. Depending on the species and morph, colonies can display spectacular combinations of blue, purple, green, yellow, pink, red, orange, and gold.
Under strong reef lighting, many Acropora develop intense fluorescent colors and contrasting growth tips. With excellent water quality, strong flow, and stable parameters, they can form impressive mature colonies that provide exceptional structure and movement within an SPS reef.
Lighting
High lighting
PAR: 250–450
Provide strong, consistent lighting with gradual acclimation when introducing new specimens.
Placement (Aquarium Zone)
Middle to upper reef
Place on stable rockwork with excellent light exposure and turbulent flow.
Allow plenty of space for future growth and maintain separation from aggressive neighboring corals.
Temperature
24–27°C (75–81°F)
Salinity
1.025–1.026 SG
pH
8.1–8.4
Alkalinity
7–9 dKH
Maintain alkalinity as consistently as possible. Sudden fluctuations can cause stress and tissue loss.
Calcium
420–450 ppm
Magnesium
1280–1380 ppm
Flow
Strong, turbulent, indirect flow
Acropora thrives with dynamic flow that continuously exchanges water around the colony and prevents detritus from accumulating.
Avoid a strong, narrow stream aimed directly at the coral.
Diet
Primarily Photosynthetic + Supplemental Feeding
Acropora obtains much of its energy from its symbiotic zooxanthellae but can also utilize small suspended food particles.
Supplemental foods:
Phytoplankton
Zooplankton
Fine particulate coral foods
Marine microplankton
Reef plankton preparations
Amino acid supplements
Adult Size (up to)
Approximately 15–30+ cm (6–12+ inches)
Size and growth form vary significantly between species and individual morphs.
Growth Rate
Moderate to fast
Growth depends heavily on lighting, flow, nutrition, alkalinity stability, and overall aquarium maturity.
Care Level
Advanced
