Tricolor Acropora Millepora Cultured

The Tricolor Acropora Millepora, also known as the Tri-color Acropora or Millepora Acropora, is a popular and beautiful SPS (Small Polyp Stony) coral in the reef aquarium hobby. Taking care of this coral can be challenging, but with the right conditions and proper care, it can thrive in a well-maintained reef tank. Here are some care guidelines for Tricolor Acropora Millepora:

Lighting:

Tricolor Acropora Millepora requires high-intensity lighting. Metal halide, T5, or high-quality LED lighting systems with a spectrum that includes blue and white light are typically recommended. Ensure proper PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) levels, which usually range from 250 to 350 PAR or even higher depending on the depth of your tank.

Water Parameters:

• Maintain stable and pristine water quality with minimal fluctuations in temperature, salinity, and water chemistry.
• Temperature: Keep it between 74°F to 80°F (23°C to 27°C).
• Salinity: Maintain a specific gravity of 1.024-1.026.
• pH: Maintain a pH level between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Alkalinity: Keep alkalinity (KH) levels within the range of 7-10 dKH.
• Calcium and Magnesium: Maintain calcium levels around 380-450 ppm and magnesium levels around 1250-1350 ppm.

Water Flow:

Tricolor Acropora Millepora prefers strong and turbulent water flow. Ensure that the coral receives enough water movement to prevent detritus buildup and to supply nutrients.

Feeding:

These corals are photosynthetic, which means they primarily obtain their energy from light. However, they can benefit from supplemental feeding with planktonic or micro-particulate foods. You can target-feed them with a specialized coral food, such as phytoplankton or zooplankton, a couple of times a week.

Water Quality Maintenance:

Regular water changes are essential to replenish trace elements and remove excess nutrients. Aim for weekly or bi-weekly water changes of 10-15% of the total water volume.

Placement:

Place the Tricolor Acropora Millepora in the upper to middle section of the tank, as it prefers intense lighting. Ensure it has enough space to grow without coming into contact with other corals, as they can sting or overgrow them.

Acclimation:

When introducing a Tricolor Acropora Millepora to your tank, acclimate it carefully to your tank's lighting and water conditions to prevent shock.

Disease and Pests:

Keep an eye out for signs of coral diseases or pests like flatworms, nudibranchs, and Acropora-eating flatworms. Quarantine new corals and inspect existing ones regularly to catch issues early.

Fragging:

If your Tricolor Acropora Millepora becomes too large or needs pruning, you can frag it carefully. Use proper tools and techniques to ensure the health of both the parent colony and the frag.

Patience:

SPS corals, including Acropora, can be slow to adapt and grow. Be patient and consistent in your care to see the best results. Remember that successful coral care requires a deep understanding of the specific needs of the species, and maintaining stability in water parameters is crucial. Regular monitoring and adjustments are key to ensuring the health and growth of Tricolor Acropora Millepora in your reef tank.