ECC Sour Apple 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 branching hammer is a classic LPS coral, known for its long, flowing tentacles and the hammer-shaped tips that give it its name. When the polyps are open, it adds a lot of movement to the tank and works well as a showpiece coral on the rockwork.

Unlike wall hammers, branching hammers grow in a tree-like structure with individual heads, making them more forgiving and easier to frag. As the coral settles in, new heads form and the coral gradually fills out into a rounded, fuller-looking colony.

Because branching hammers have a strong sting, it is best to give them plenty of space so they can expand and grow without coming into contact with nearby corals.

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): 1-20ppm
• Phosphate: 0.01-0.1ppm
• Nitrite (NO2): Undetectable
• Ammonia (NH3): Undetectable

Lighting Requirements

Branching hammer corals prefer medium light areas of the aquarium, ideally in the 150-250 PAR range, but can be acclimated to lighting conditions slightly below or above this range. If you need to place it in a higher light area, it's best to acclimate it gradually over the course of a few weeks 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

Place the branching hammer coral securely on rockwork with open space around it, as it grows relatively quickly and can sting nearby corals. The bottom half of the rockwork is usually best for its lighting and flow needs.

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

The branching hammer coral can and will sting other corals it comes into contact with. Ensure there is enough space between it and its neighbors to prevent potential conflicts.

Feeding and Nutrition

While this coral primarily relies on photosynthesis for energy, it can benefit from additives like Amino Acids. Amino Acids can support healthy growth and better coloration. While they don't have as strong of a feeding response vs some other LPS corals, they can benefit from the occasional target feeding of small meaty foods.

Growth Rate and Pattern

Branching hammer corals grow relatively quickly, with new heads forming near the base of a polyp and gradually branching out to create a tree-like structure over time.

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.