As a novice in the world of coral keeping, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect LPS coral for your aquarium. With its vibrant colors and unique patterns, Acan Coral, also known as Micromussa (Acanthastrea) Lordhowensis, seems to be a promising candidate. But is it truly the ideal choice for first-timers?
In this care guide, we will delve into the intricacies of maintaining Acan Coral, exploring its tank requirements, water parameters, lighting needs, and more. However, before we jump into the details, let us consider whether this captivating coral lives up to its reputation as the go-to option for beginners.
Key Takeaways
- Acan Coral is a popular choice for reef-keeping hobbyists due to its distinctive appearance and simple care routine.
- Proper tank requirements and water parameters, including temperature, pH levels, and water flow, are essential for the health and well-being of Acan Coral.
- Lighting and fertilizer requirements should be moderate, with suitable options including LEDs, T5s, and Metal halides.
- Acan Coral can be propagated through fragging, but it requires the right tools and prior experience. It is also important to choose suitable tank mates and monitor the coral's health regularly.
Tank Requirements and Water Parameters

When setting up a tank for Acan Corals, it is important to carefully consider the necessary tank requirements and water parameters to ensure their optimal growth and well-being.
Acan Corals thrive in temperatures ranging from 72 to 82 F and require moderate lighting conditions with a range of 25 to 50 PAR. The pH levels should be maintained between 8.2 to 8.4, and the ideal tank size should be a minimum of 10 gallons.
It is crucial to maintain water parameters such as temperature, pH levels, alkalinity levels (9 to 12 dKH), and specific gravity levels (1.023-1.025). Additionally, moderate water flow is essential to prevent any damage.
Providing the ideal lighting conditions and maintaining the necessary water parameters will ensure the successful growth and well-being of Acan Corals.
Lighting and Fertilizer Requirements
To ensure the optimal growth and health of Acan Corals, it is essential to provide suitable lighting and maintain appropriate fertilizer levels.
Here are some key considerations for lighting and fertilizer requirements:
- Lighting intensity: Acan Corals have moderate lighting needs, with a preferred range of 25 to 50 PAR. Suitable lighting options include LEDs, T5s, and Metal halides. It is important to provide moderate water flow and lighting to simulate their natural environment.
- Nutrient supplementation: Corals require calcium and magnesium for proper skeleton growth. It is crucial to maintain calcium levels between 360 to 450 ppm and magnesium levels between 1250 to 1350 ppm. Additionally, nitrate levels should range between 1 to 10 ppm, as excessive levels can be harmful.
Regular monitoring and adjustment of nutrient levels are necessary to ensure the overall health and vitality of Acan Corals.
Propagation and Tank Mates

Propagation of Acan Coral involves a careful process that requires the right tools, experience, and precautions to ensure successful fragmentation and growth. Fragging Acan Coral has several benefits, such as creating new colonies, increasing genetic diversity, and providing opportunities for trade or sale.
The process involves using equipment like a Dremel saw or band saw to make precise cuts, ensuring minimal damage to the coral. It is important to protect the skin and eyes with nitrile gloves and safety goggles during the fragging process.
After fragmentation, the coral should be allowed to rest in an iodine dip to recover and heal before being placed in the tank. When it comes to tank mates, Acan Coral is generally compatible with other LPS corals. However, caution should be exercised when introducing fish with nipping tendencies, as they may damage the coral.
Appearance, Health Problems, and Feeding
Acan Coral, scientifically known as Micromussa (Acanthastrea) Lordhowensis, is a colonial coral consisting of individual polyps connected to each other. The corallites, which are the skeletal structures of the Acan Coral, have a diameter of approximately 0.6 inches.
This coral has fleshy polyps with sweeper tentacles that provide defense. However, one common concern among Acan Corals is retraction or closing up, which can be caused by fluctuating water parameters such as temperature, alkalinity, and salinity. Deteriorating health can be identified by symptoms such as skeleton exposure, ragged or missing tentacles, and shrinking in size. Overexposure to light, nutrient deficiency, and low levels of nitrates and phosphates can also contribute to health problems.
To maintain the well-being of Acan Corals, regular monitoring of water conditions and prompt addressing of any issues is essential. Additionally, Acan Corals have a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae algae, which provide nutrients through photosynthesis. However, supplemental feeding may be necessary if corals show signs of weakness or slow growth. Acan Corals can be fed with mysis, brine shrimp, copepods, and pellets, and target feeding should be practiced to minimize food waste and water pollution. Feeding should be occasional and done when necessary.
Ideal Temperature and Ph Range

The optimal temperature range and pH levels for maintaining the health of Acan Coral are crucial considerations for successful care. Acan Coral: Impact of Temperature and pH on Growth cannot be overstated.
Acan Coral thrives in water temperatures ranging from 72 to 82°F, which mimics its natural habitat in the Indo-Pacific ocean. Maintaining stable pH levels within the range of 8.2 to 8.4 is also essential for the proper growth and development of Acan Coral.
Fluctuations in temperature and pH can cause stress to the coral, leading to retraction and deteriorating health. It is important to regularly monitor and maintain these optimal water parameters to ensure the well-being of Acan Coral and promote its vibrant and colorful appearance.
Minimum Tank Size and Placement
Maintaining an appropriate tank size and strategic placement are essential factors to consider for the successful care of Acan Coral. As a first-timer, it is crucial to provide the coral with the right environment to thrive. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 10 gallons is recommended for Acan Coral. However, it is important to note that Acan Corals tend to populate shallower reefs, so a spacious tank is preferable, especially if you plan on keeping other coral types with aggressive temperaments. Avoid overcrowding to prevent territorial warfare and ensure a healthy environment for the coral.
- Placement: Acan Coral should be placed near the bottom of the tank with medium lighting and flow. They prefer to sit on sandy or crushed coral substrates. Strategic placement will help provide the coral with the right conditions for growth and prevent damage from excessive water flow or lighting.
Water Flow and Alkalinity Levels

To maintain optimal health and growth of Acan Coral, it is essential to carefully consider the water flow and alkalinity levels within the tank.
Adequate water flow is crucial for Acan Coral as it helps to remove waste, deliver nutrients, and prevent the buildup of debris. Insufficient water flow can lead to stagnant conditions, which may result in poor coral health and even death. On the other hand, excessive water flow can cause the coral to retract its polyps and potentially damage its delicate tissues.
Maintaining proper alkalinity levels is equally important as it helps to support the coral's skeletal growth and overall vitality. Alkalinity levels between 9 to 12 dKH are recommended for Acan Coral. Monitoring and adjusting alkalinity levels regularly will ensure the coral's well-being and promote its long-term success in the aquarium.
Lighting Options and PAR Ranges
Proper lighting is a crucial aspect to consider when caring for Acan Coral, as it directly impacts the coral's growth and overall well-being. The following lighting options are suitable for Acan Coral:
- LED lighting: LED lights are energy-efficient and provide a wide range of customizable features. They offer a spectrum of light that can be adjusted to meet the specific needs of Acan Coral.
- Metal halides: Metal halide lights emit intense light, closely resembling natural sunlight. They are known for promoting vibrant colors and enhanced growth in corals.
- T5s: T5 fluorescent lights are a popular choice for reef aquariums. They provide a balanced light spectrum and are effective in promoting the growth of Acan Coral.
When choosing lighting for Acan Coral, it is important to consider the PAR (photosynthetically active radiation) range. A PAR range of 25 to 50 is suitable for Acan Coral, as it ensures optimal photosynthesis and growth.
Fragging Process and Equipment Needed

The fragging process for Acan Coral involves using specific equipment and techniques to carefully separate individual corallites from the base of the coral colony. One commonly used tool is a Dremel saw, which allows for precise cuts without damaging the coral. It is important to wear protective gear such as nitrile gloves and safety goggles to prevent any potential harm. Fragging Acan Coral requires skill and experience, as it is important to ensure the health and well-being of the coral during the process. After fragging, it is recommended to allow the coral to rest in an iodine dip to aid in recovery and healing. By following proper fragging techniques and using the appropriate equipment, coral enthusiasts can successfully propagate Acan Coral and expand their reef tank collection.
Equipment Needed | Techniques Used | Precautions Taken |
---|---|---|
Dremel saw | Precise cutting | Wearing nitrile gloves and safety goggles |
Iodine dip | Promotes recovery and healing | Avoiding excessive stress on coral |
Fragging tools | Separating corallites from base | Maintaining optimal water parameters |
Frag plugs | Securing cut fragments | Proper handling of coral during fragging |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Acan Corals Typically Live?
The lifespan of Acan corals can vary depending on various factors. On average, they can live for several years, with some specimens living up to 15-20 years in optimal conditions. Factors such as water quality, lighting, and proper care practices can greatly affect their longevity.
Can Acan Corals Be Kept in a Nano Reef Tank?
Keeping Acan corals in a nano reef tank has both pros and cons. Pros include their small size and ability to thrive in smaller tanks. Cons include the need for stable water parameters and careful monitoring to prevent territorial conflicts.
Are Acan Corals Suitable for Beginners in the Reef-Keeping Hobby?
Acan corals are suitable for beginners in the reef-keeping hobby due to their distinctive looks and simple care routine. With proper tank requirements, water parameters, and feeding, beginners can enjoy the vibrant color variations and beauty of acan corals.
How Often Should Acan Corals Be Fed?
Acan corals should be fed occasionally, as needed, to ensure their optimal health and growth. The best food options for acan corals include mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and pellets.
Are Acan Corals Aggressive Towards Other Coral Species?
Acan corals are generally not aggressive towards other coral species. However, caution should be exercised when placing them near corals with similar aggressive temperaments. Compatibility can vary depending on individual coral types and tank conditions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Acan Coral, also known as Micromussa (Acanthastrea) Lordhowensis, is a captivating Large Stony Polyp (LPS) coral that is suitable for both beginners and experienced reef-keepers. With its unique appearance and manageable care routine, it has become a popular choice in the hobby.
By understanding the specific tank requirements, water parameters, lighting, and nutrient needs, enthusiasts can successfully cultivate and appreciate the beauty of Acan Coral in their aquariums.