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Acropora Corals
SPS

Acropora Corals

Acropora spp.

💧High Flow
☀️High Light
⭐Advanced Difficulty
Acropora Corals (Acropora spp.) are iconic SPS corals known for their incredible diversity of shapes, vibrant colors, and complex growth forms. With over 150 recognized species ranging from thick branching to tabling and bushy structures, Acropora are a favorite among reefkeepers. They thrive under intense lighting and strong, turbulent flow, and they reward stable conditions with rapid growth and stunning coloration. Though sensitive to parameter swings, their beauty and reputation make them a prized addition to advanced reef aquariums.

Classification

KingdomAnimalia
PhylumCnidaria
ClassAnthozoa
OrderScleractinia
FamilyAcroporidae
GenusAcropora
SpeciesMultiple, including:
  • Acropora millepora
  • Acropora tenuis
  • Acropora formosa
  • Acropora tortuosa

'Acropora' refers to a diverse genus of over 150 recognized species, including popular varieties like Acropora millepora, Acropora tenuis, and Acropora valida.

Quick Care Tips

Lighting
High
Low
Moderate
High
Flow
High
Low
Moderate
High
Difficulty
Advanced
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Acropora Coral hard to keep?

Yes, Acropora is considered one of the more challenging coral types due to its sensitivity to water parameter fluctuations and high lighting requirements. Your tank should be well-established - ideally running for at least 6 months - before introducing Acropora to ensure stability.

How fast does Acropora Coral grow?

Growth rates vary widely across Acropora species, as the genus includes over 150 types with different characteristics. However, under ideal conditions with stable water parameters and strong lighting, most Acropora are considered fast growers once they are established.

Why is my Acropora Coral turning brown?

Discoloration in Acropora corals can be caused by a variety of factors. If the coral was recently introduced, browning may be a temporary response to shipping stress or differences between your tank and its previous environment. In established corals, browning is often linked to excess nutrients (such as elevated nitrates), insufficient lighting, or general water instability. It may also indicate an overgrowth of zooxanthellae. If other SPS corals in your tank appear healthy, consider adjusting the lighting intensity or placement of your Acropora.

Marketplace Overview

Current Listings
1636
Lowest Price
$0
Highest Price
$1300
Median Price
$90

Shop over 1636 Acropora Corals

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How to Choose a Healthy Acropora Coral

  • Coloration:

    Look for vibrant, consistent coloration - blues, pinks, greens, and multicolor tips are highly valued. Dull or brown frags may indicate stress. Healthy Acropora often show pale or white tips at branch ends, indicating active growth.

  • Tissue Health:

    Choose frags with full tissue coverage and no exposed white skeleton. Avoid pieces with necrosis or recession at the base.

  • Encrusting Base:

    If the frag is mounted, check for signs that it has begun to encrust onto the plug or mounting surface. Encrusting is a strong indicator of recent, healthy growth and better long-term stability. Note that very fresh frags may not show encrusting yet, which isn’t necessarily a red flag if the tissue looks healthy.

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