Introduction to Anacropora
Anacropora corals are a unique genus of Small Polyp Stony (SPS) corals known for their delicate, branching structure and rapid growth. Unlike their Acropora relatives, Anacropora feature thinner, more irregular branches, creating a natural, bushy appearance. They are prized for their ability to adapt to various reef conditions, making them a captivating addition to reef aquariums.
Available in shades of brown, tan, green, and subtle hints of blue, these corals add texture and vertical dimension to aquascapes. Their hardiness makes them an excellent choice for hobbyists seeking visually intriguing SPS corals.
Natural Habitat and Origin
Anacropora are native to the shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific, including Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and the Great Barrier Reef. They thrive in lagoons and reef flats with variable light and water flow, often encrusting rocky surfaces and forming bushy colonies. These corals provide shelter for small marine life and contribute significantly to reef biodiversity.
Water Chemistry
Stable water parameters are essential for the health and growth of Anacropora. While more forgiving than other SPS species, they still require consistent conditions to thrive.
Ideal Parameters:
- Calcium: 400450 ppm
- Alkalinity: 812 dKH
- Magnesium: 12501350 ppm
- Nitrates: 210 ppm
- Phosphates: <0.03 ppm
- Temperature: 7680F
- Salinity: 1.0241.026
Regular water testing and small, frequent water changes are recommended to maintain optimal conditions. Avoid sudden parameter changes to prevent stress.
Lighting
Anacropora thrive under moderate to high lighting, with a PAR range of 150300 being ideal. Proper lighting enhances their subtle coloration and supports their fast growth.
Lighting Tips:
- Provide a PAR range of 150300 for optimal health.
- Acclimate them gradually to higher light levels to avoid bleaching.
- Blue-spectrum lighting highlights their structure and fluorescence.
At Top Shelf Aquatics, we use lighting systems like Ecotech Marine Radions to replicate natural reef conditions. Monitoring polyp extension and overall health helps fine-tune placement for optimal growth and coloration.
Water Flow
Moderate to high water flow is crucial for Anacropora to maintain health and support their rapid growth. Proper flow prevents debris buildup and encourages nutrient exchange.
Water Flow Tips:
- Position them in areas with indirect, consistent flow.
- Avoid strong, direct currents that may damage their branches.
- Use wave makers or pumps to create random flow patterns.
Advanced systems like Ecotech Marine MP pumps provide stable, variable flow that promotes healthy growth and prevents detritus accumulation.
What We Feed
While primarily photosynthetic, Anacropora benefit from supplemental feeding to support growth and coloration. They respond well to fine particulate foods.
Recommended Foods:
- Powdered coral foods like Reef Roids
- Phytoplankton-based products
- Finely ground plankton or rotifers
Feeding Tips:
- Target-feed small amounts near polyps using a pipette or baster.
- Feed during the evening for better nutrient uptake.
- Pause water flow temporarily during feeding to allow nutrient capture.
At Top Shelf Aquatics, regular feedings with high-quality foods enhance Anacroporas vibrant appearance and support robust growth.
Coloration and Tank Maturity
Anacropora display earthy tones such as green, tan, and brown, with occasional blue highlights under optimal conditions. Their coloration is influenced by stable water parameters and lighting.
Enhancing Coloration:
- Use blue-spectrum lighting to highlight fluorescence.
- Maintain stable calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels.
- Provide a low-nutrient environment to prevent dull colors.
These corals perform best in mature reef systems with stable water quality and consistent care.
Common Challenges
Despite their hardiness, Anacropora can face issues under poor conditions:
- Tissue Recession (STN/RTN): Prevent by maintaining stable parameters and acting quickly during RTN by fragging healthy sections.
- Bleaching: Gradually acclimate to new lighting to avoid stress.
- Detritus Accumulation: Ensure proper flow to keep coral surfaces clean.
- Slow Growth in New Tanks: Introduce to mature systems for optimal results.
- Pests and Predators: Inspect for pests and maintain adequate spacing.
Acclimation Guide
Proper acclimation ensures a smooth transition for Anacropora into their new environment:
- Temperature Acclimation: Float the sealed bag for 1520 minutes to equalize temperature.
- Drip Acclimation: Gradually mix tank water with shipping water over 3045 minutes.
- Lighting Acclimation: Place in a shaded area initially and gradually increase light intensity over 23 weeks.
- Placement: Position on stable surfaces with moderate to high flow, avoiding direct currents.
