Description
Acropora millepora is a highly prized SPS coral known for its dense, bushy branching growth and exceptional coloration. Depending on the individual morph, colonies can display vivid combinations of red, orange, pink, yellow, green, blue, and purple, often with contrasting or fluorescent branch tips.
Under strong blue reef lighting, A. millepora can develop intense fluorescence and dramatic color contrast. As the colony matures, its compact branches create excellent structure and movement in an SPS-focused reef aquarium.
Lighting
High lighting
PAR: 250–450
Provide strong, stable lighting. Acclimate gradually when moving the coral to higher PAR levels.
Placement (Aquarium Zone)
Middle to upper reef
Place on stable rockwork with excellent light exposure and strong, turbulent flow.
Allow sufficient space around the colony for branching growth and avoid direct contact with neighboring corals.
Temperature
24–27°C (75–81°F)
Salinity
1.025–1.026 SG
pH
8.1–8.4
Alkalinity
7–9 dKH
Consistency is more important than maintaining a specific value.
Calcium
420–450 ppm
Magnesium
1280–1380 ppm
Flow
Strong, turbulent, indirect flow
Provide multidirectional flow that keeps detritus from settling between the branches and promotes efficient gas and nutrient exchange.
Avoid a constant, concentrated jet directly against the colony.
Diet
Primarily Photosynthetic + Supplemental Feeding
Most of its energy comes from symbiotic zooxanthellae, with supplemental feeding potentially supporting growth and overall condition.
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 varies according to colony age, morph, aquarium conditions, and available space.
Growth Rate
Moderate to fast
Healthy specimens can establish substantial branching colonies under optimized SPS conditions.
Care Level
Advanced
