Acropora Corals can seem intimidating, they are the star of some of the most amazing single-species tanks, and the centerpiece of many mixed tanks. Their flowing polyps and stunning rainbow colors make them very desirable. Acropora corals prefer high flow and high light, they do better with lower nutrients, ideally nitrates below 2 ppm and phosphates below .25 ppm. Acro coral grow their skeleton with the calcium and alkalinity in the water. To have success with these high end coral, calcium levels of 380-460ppm and alkalinity of 7-12 dKH are required in order to maintain skeletal growth. While Acropora coral can seem intimidating at first, they are not overly difficult. You must simply maintain your nutrient levels, calcium, and alkalinity levels, and make sure your tank lighting and flow is sufficient enough.
There are many species of Acropora coral, but the most commonly available in the aquarium trade are Tenuis, Millepora, Staghorn, Florida, Granulosa, Valida, Secale, Paniculata. These Acro live coral are considered relatively easy to care for and are best for intermediate reefers. There are also smooth skin Acroporas, including Echinata, Caroliniana, and Lokani. Smooth Skin Acroporas like lower light and high flow.
Above all else acros like stability. This is the most important part for any live coral aquarium, but specifically for acros. They are more finicky than other corals and may require dosing and frequent water changes, especially for a new reefer. We recommend that you test your water frequently, testing for nitrates, phosphates, calcium, alkalinity, and salinity. If you follow these simple steps you too can have a beautiful rainbow acro coral for the centerpiece of your coral reef aquarium.
