Acropora microclados

• Indo-Pacific
• High Care Level
• For Advanced Hobbyists
• High Placement in Reef Tank

Acropora microclados is a beautiful species of SPS (Small Polyp Stony) coral from the Indo-Pacific region, known for its delicate, branching structure and vibrant coloration. This coral often displays hues of green, blue, and purple, with its branching tips sometimes glowing with bright colors. A. microclados can grow into large, intricate colonies over time, making it a captivating centerpiece in a reef tank. However, it has specific care requirements and is best suited for advanced hobbyists who can provide the exact environmental conditions it needs to thrive.

Placement in the Tank

Acropora microclados requires strong lighting to promote healthy growth and vibrant colors. A light intensity of 250-350 PAR is ideal for this species. It should be placed in the upper sections of the reef tank, where it will receive sufficient lighting similar to the shallow reef zones it naturally inhabits. In addition to strong lighting, A. microclados thrives in high water flow conditions. The water flow should be strong enough to provide proper nutrient exchange and help remove detritus, but not so strong as to cause tissue damage or stress.

Water Parameters

To ensure the health and optimal growth of Acropora microclados, maintaining stable water conditions is essential. The recommended water parameters are:

• Temperature: 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F), with a stable temperature of 26°C (79°F) being ideal.
• Salinity: 1.023–1.025 specific gravity (SG), with 1.024 being optimal.
• pH: 8.0 to 8.4, with an ideal pH of 8.2.
• Alkalinity (dKH): 8-12 dKH, with 9-10 dKH being ideal for stable growth.
• Calcium: 400-450 ppm, essential for the development of a strong skeleton.
• Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm.
• Nitrate: Less than 5 ppm, as elevated nitrate levels can stress the coral and affect its coloration.
• Phosphate: Below 0.03 ppm to prevent algae growth, which can compete with the coral for light and nutrients.

Feeding

Acropora microclados primarily depends on zooxanthellae algae for photosynthesis, but it can benefit from supplemental feeding to enhance growth. Offering zooplankton, phytoplankton, or liquid coral foods a few times per week will help supplement its diet, especially in aquariums with limited plankton. It is important not to overfeed, as this can lead to water quality issues, such as elevated nitrates and phosphates.

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance is key to keeping Acropora microclados healthy and thriving:

• Water Changes: Perform regular water changes (10-15% weekly) to maintain water quality and reduce the buildup of harmful substances.
• Water Parameter Monitoring: Regularly check temperature, pH, calcium, alkalinity, and phosphate levels to ensure optimal conditions for the coral.
• Pruning: As Acropora microclados grows, it may require occasional fragging to prevent overcrowding and ensure that it has adequate space for growth.
• Pest Control: Watch for pests such as red bugs, flatworms, and Aiptasia, which can damage the coral. If pests are detected, take immediate action to remove them to prevent further harm.

Compatibility

Acropora microclados is an aggressive coral due to its sweeper tentacles, which can sting and damage nearby corals. It should be spaced adequately from other soft corals, LPS, and SPS species to prevent direct contact and stinging. It thrives when kept with other non-aggressive SPS corals but requires sufficient space to allow for natural growth.

Conclusion

Acropora microclados is a visually stunning coral that can add vibrant colors and intricate structure to a reef tank. Its high care level makes it most suitable for advanced hobbyists who can provide the high lighting, strong water flow, and stable water parameters it needs to thrive. With proper care, A. microclados can grow into a stunning and healthy colony, becoming a captivating centerpiece in your reef aquarium.