Acropora suharsonoi

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

Acropora suharsonoi is a stunning and highly sought-after species of SPS (Small Polyp Stony) coral native to the Indo-Pacific region. Known for its branching structure and bright coloration, it often displays shades of blue, green, and purple, with its tips occasionally showing vibrant fluorescent hues. A. suharsonoi grows into dense, bushy colonies that can dominate areas of a reef tank when given the right care and space. This species is ideal for advanced hobbyists due to its high care level and its specific environmental needs.

Placement in the Tank

Acropora suharsonoi requires strong lighting to promote healthy growth and vivid colors. An intensity of 250-350 PAR is optimal, and it should be placed in the upper sections of the reef tank where it can receive plenty of light. Like most SPS corals, A. suharsonoi thrives in high water flow conditions, which help prevent detritus buildup and facilitate nutrient exchange. However, it is important to avoid direct, excessive flow that may cause tissue damage or stress.

Water Parameters

To keep Acropora suharsonoi healthy and thriving, maintaining stable water parameters is crucial. The recommended ranges 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, ideally 8.2.
• Alkalinity (dKH): 8-12 dKH, with 9-10 dKH being ideal for stable growth.
• Calcium: 400-450 ppm, essential for strong skeletal development.
• Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm.
• Nitrate: Less than 5 ppm to prevent poor growth and stress.
• Phosphate: Below 0.03 ppm to avoid algae competition and potential coral damage.

Feeding

While Acropora suharsonoi primarily relies on its zooxanthellae algae for photosynthesis, it can benefit from supplemental feeding to enhance its growth, especially in aquariums with limited plankton. Zooplankton, phytoplankton, or liquid coral foods can be fed a few times a week. However, it’s important not to overfeed, as excess nutrients can lead to water quality issues, such as high nitrate and phosphate levels, which can negatively affect the coral.

Maintenance and Care

Maintaining Acropora suharsonoi requires regular attention and careful upkeep:

• Water Changes: Perform regular water changes (10-15% weekly) to maintain water quality and remove harmful substances.
• Water Parameter Monitoring: Consistently check temperature, pH, calcium, alkalinity, and phosphate to ensure they remain within the recommended range for this species.
• Pruning: Since Acropora suharsonoi is a fast-growing species, it may require occasional fragging to prevent overcrowding and ensure it has adequate space to grow.
• Pest Control: Watch for pests such as red bugs, flatworms, and Aiptasia, which can damage or irritate the coral. Prompt action is necessary to remove pests to prevent long-term harm.

Compatibility

Acropora suharsonoi is an aggressive coral and should be spaced sufficiently from other corals, particularly soft corals and LPS species, to prevent stinging or tissue damage. It does best when housed with other non-aggressive SPS species that have similar care requirements. Adequate space should be provided to allow the coral to grow freely and avoid competition for light and nutrients.

Conclusion

Acropora suharsonoi is a beautiful and striking species of SPS coral that can become a true centerpiece in a reef tank with the proper care. Its high care level and specific environmental needs make it best suited for advanced hobbyists who can provide the stable conditions it requires. With strong lighting, high water flow, and stable water parameters, A. suharsonoi can grow into a dense and vibrant colony, adding dynamic color and complexity to any reef aquarium.