Acan coral

Acanthastrea hillae

Family : Lobophylliidae

CoralMarineLPS

Massive or encrusting LPS coral, highly colorful, popular in reef aquariums.

Popularity
LPS coral
large polyps, low light
Availability
Specialty only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
Indo-Pacific
Récifs coralliens de l'océan Indien et Pacifique tropical.

Description

Acanthastrea hillae forms massive or encrusting colonies with fleshy polyps. Colors range from green to red, blue and purple. Each polyp has a central mouth surrounded by short tentacles. It is an aggressive coral that can extend mesenterial filaments to attack neighbors. It feeds mainly through photosynthesis but accepts meaty foods. Growth is moderate. It is highly prized for its bright colors and hardiness.

Habitat

Region :

Coral reefs, reef slopes, shaded areas

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2427 °C
pH8.18.4
GH812 °dGH
KH812 °dKH
Salinity1.0231.025
NO₃
≤ 10 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.1 mg/L
Calcium
≥ 400 ppm
Magnesium
≥ 1200 ppm
Light
Medium
Flow
Medium

Care

Difficulty
2/5
Diet
Photosynthetic
Min. tank
100 L
Min. group
1
Adult size
15 cm
Lifespan
10 years
Temperament
Semi-aggressive
Propagation
fragmentation

Care notes

Maintain temperature 24-27°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Moderate lighting (PAR 100-200) and moderate flow. A minimum tank size of 100 liters is recommended. Feed meaty foods (mysis, brine shrimp) 1-2 times per week. Nitrate levels should be <10 ppm, phosphate <0.1 ppm. Calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1200-1350 mg/L. Avoid placing too close to other corals as it can sting. Stable water parameters are essential.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References