ECC Aurelia Branching Hammer

Quick Stats

• Care Level: Moderate
• Coral Type: LPS (Large Polyp Stony)
• Lighting Requirement: Medium (150-250 PAR)
• Flow: Moderate
• Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
• Placement: Rockwork
• Approximate Purchase Size: 3/4"

Overview

The Aurelia Branching Hammer is a classic Euphyllia with a bright twist. Its bold green and yellow tips give it a high-impact look under aquarium lighting, while the branching structure allows for easier placement and growth compared to wall varieties. These corals do well in moderate flow and lighting, and they add constant motion to the tank with their gently waving tentacles. Just give them a little space from other corals, and they’ll thrive in most reef tanks.

Note: This is not a WYSIWYG listing. Photo is a representation of the shape, size, and color of the coral you will receive.

Water Parameters

Corals thrive in stable water conditions with regular water changes. Corals with a hard skeleton, like this one, will consume calcium and alkalinity as they grow, often requiring additional supplementation. Routine water testing helps ensure these needs are consistently met.

• Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.025-1.026
• Temperature: 75-78 Degrees F
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Alkalinity: 8-9.5 dKH
• Calcium: 400-450ppm
• Magnesium: 1300-1450ppm
• Nitrate (NO3): 10-25ppm
• Phosphate: 0.01-0.1ppm
• Nitrite (NO2): Undetectable
• Ammonia (NH3): Undetectable

Lighting Requirements

This coral prefers medium light areas of the aquarium, ideally in the 150-250 PAR range. While it can handle slightly higher light, it's best to acclimate it gradually to avoid stress.

For those with mixed reef tanks, a PAR meter is invaluable for fine-tuning light levels across different corals, helping ensure each coral gets the right intensity for its needs. This careful setup supports the coral’s vibrant color and long-term health.

Ideal Tank Placement

Position this coral securely onto rockwork in an area with room to grow as this coral grows relatively quickly and can sting nearby corals it comes into contact with.

Water Flow Requirements

Moderate water flow is ideal. Make sure the polyps of the coral are gently swaying and avoid excessive flow that could damage the tissue by pressing it against the skeleton.

Aggressiveness and Compatibility

While this coral does not have long sweeper tentacles, it is still capable of stinging nearby corals. Ensure there is enough space between it and other tank inhabitants to prevent potential conflicts.

Feeding and Nutrition

While this coral primarily relies on photosynthesis for energy, it can benefit from Amino Acids like CoralAmino. These supplemental feedings can support faster growth and better coloration, making it easy to get the most out of this colorful coral.

Growth Rate and Pattern

Branching Hammer corals grow relatively quickly, with new heads forming and branching out, creating a tree-like structure.

Acclimation Process

Acclimation is essential for corals to adjust to their new environment. For a full step-by-step process, refer to our Coral Acclimation Guide.