Description
SPY Montipora – Montipora hirsuta
Montipora hirsuta, known worldwide as the SPY Montipora, is a highly sought-after red branching variety celebrated for its deep crimson base, vivid orange polyps, and exceptional fluorescence under blue-spectrum lighting. This globally recognized strain has become a staple among SPS collectors for its brilliant coloration, sculptural growth form, and adaptability to a wide range of reef environments. Unlike plating Montipora species, the SPY Monti grows upward in elegant, finger-like branches, adding height and structure to any SPS-dominated reef.
Lighting: Moderate to high (200–350 PAR); its signature red and orange hues intensify under blue-heavy LEDs and stable high-spectrum lighting
Flow: Moderate to strong; prefers consistent, multidirectional flow to promote even tissue growth and prevent detritus buildup
Placement: Middle to upper regions of the aquarium; ensure open space around branches for vertical and lateral growth without shading neighboring corals
Temperature: 76–80°F (24–27°C)
Salinity: 1.025–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH; must remain stable to preserve growth tips and coloration
Calcium: 420–460 ppm
Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
Nutrients: Low to moderate (NO₃ 2–10 ppm, PO₄ 0.02–0.08 ppm); balanced nutrients maintain vivid coloration and prevent pale or browned tissue
Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic; benefits from occasional broadcast feeding with reef roids, phytoplankton, or amino acid supplements to enhance polyp extension
Aggression: Low; non-stinging but may overshadow slower-growing SPS species if spacing is insufficient
Growth Rate: Fast; grows upright with thick, branching forms that create stunning contrast against encrusting or plating SPS corals
Care Level: Intermediate – rewarding and resilient under consistent light, flow, and chemistry
Compatibility: Peaceful; ideal centerpiece for SPS-dominated systems and visually striking when paired with green or blue Acropora and plating Montipora morphs
