Acropora

The Acropora is the undisputed “King of the Reef.” It is the most diverse and sought-after genus of stony corals, representing the pinnacle of the reef-keeping hobby. Acropora are SPS (Small Polyp Stony) corals known for their branching, plating, or bushy growth forms and their incredible, almost neon-like coloration. While they are the most beautiful corals in the ocean, they are also the most demanding; they are often referred to as “sticks” by hobbyists because they require high-intensity care to prevent them from turning into white, lifeless skeletons.

Coloration: Pink and green

Size: Sold as 1–2 inch frags; in a stable tank, they can grow into massive colonies several feet wide.

Lighting: Very High (300–500+ PAR). They require intense, high-quality lighting to drive photosynthesis and maintain their vivid pigments.

Water flow: Very High and Turbulent. Strong, random flow is vital to bring nutrients to the tiny polyps and to strip away waste. If the water is stagnant, the coral will “suffocate” in its own slime.

Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic, but they benefit immensely from daily dosing of amino acids and ultra-fine particulate foods (like reef roids or rotifers) during the night when their polyps are fully extended.

Aggressiveness: Peaceful to its own species (usually), but they possess a powerful sting against other coral types. They also win battles by simply overgrowing and “shading out” their neighbors.

Care Level: Expert. They require rock-solid stability in Alkalinity, Calcium, and Magnesium, as well as near-zero (but not absolute zero) Nitrates and Phosphates.