Description
Montipora foliosa – Montipora foliosa
Montipora foliosa, commonly known as the Foliose Montipora, is a graceful small-polyp stony (SPS) coral celebrated for its tiered, leafy structure and vibrant coloration. This species forms thin, undulating plates that layer outward like coral “foliage,” creating intricate shelves and ledges throughout the reefscape. Each plate is covered with fine polyps that give the coral a velvety texture and subtle shimmer under aquarium lighting. Found in a range of color morphs—from intense red and orange to green, purple, and blue—M. foliosa offers a living sculpture effect that adds both movement and architectural balance to SPS-dominated aquariums.
Lighting: Moderate to high (180–300 PAR); coloration and polyp definition are strongest under blue-heavy LED or hybrid T5/LED setups
Flow: Moderate to strong; prefers variable, multidirectional current that prevents detritus buildup on horizontal plates
Placement: Middle to upper regions of the aquarium; allow space for outward plating and avoid shading from faster-growing corals
Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C)
Salinity: 1.025–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH; stability is essential for maintaining polyp extension and coloration
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 systems enhance color depth without promoting algae growth
Feeding: Photosynthetic but benefits from occasional broadcast feeding with microplankton, reef roids, or amino acids to support tissue health and growth
Aggression: Low; non-stinging, though can overgrow neighboring encrusting species if placed too close
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast; develops thin, overlapping plates that expand horizontally and create natural coral “terraces”
Care Level: Intermediate – hardy and rewarding under stable SPS parameters and consistent lighting
Compatibility: Peaceful; excellent for SPS-dominated systems and complements branching Acropora and Seriatopora species with its flowing, plate-like form
