Montiopra sp.
Montipora species are one of the most diverse small polyp stony (SPS) corals.
Second only to Acropora in species richness, with 85 different species currently known. They come in an array of different growth forms, ranging from submassive, laminar, foliaceous, encrusting and branching formations.
Occasionally, multiple different morphologies can be present in an individual colony. The skeletal structure of this species is very light and porous.
Montipora polyps are distinctively tiny, uniform, and fuzzy which often gives the coral a velvet appearance, similar to that of Porites species.
This species can come in almost any colour possible, but green, brown, purple and pink seem to be the most common appearance.
They are not known to be strong competitors, but care must be taken when placing them in aquaria.
Montipora is a great starter SPS coral for reef hobbyists, as they are a generally tolerant and fast-growing species.
Basic Water Parameters
pH
8.0 to 8.3
Salinity
34 - 36ppt
Temperature
24.0 - 26.0 Celsius
Husbandry Requirements
Lighiting
180+ PAR
Flow
High supplemental turbulence required
Aggressiveness
Limited ability to damage other corals.
Acclimation Guide
- It is highly recommended to acclimate all corals to a new environment to prevent shocking corals.
- Place the corals in the water from the packing bags and slowly add the water from new environment (Dripping method is recommended).
- Use the water parameter above as a guide.
- When the vessel becomes full , replace the water with the new environment water by a small amount at a time.
- Ensure the water temperature matches with the new environment’s water.
- After the corals have spent adequate time in the acclimation water, gently place the corals to a new environment.
- It is recommended to place new corals under lower light intensity than usually required. Once corals show no signs of stress, it can be moved to higher lighting area gradually.”