ECC Sunset Montipora
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Quick Stats
- Care Level: Moderate
- Coral Type: SPS (Small Polyp Stony)
- Lighting Requirement: Medium (150-250 PAR)
- Flow: Moderate to High
- Temperament: Peaceful
- Placement: Rockwork
- Approximate Purchase Size: 3/4"
Overview
The ECC Sunset Montipora is a classic encrusting coral that grows well in stable reef systems. Its low profile and steady growth make it ideal for covering rockwork and filling in flat or awkward spaces in the aquascape.
This coral does best in moderate lighting and flow, and it's a good choice for hobbyists who want a manageable SPS that still brings color and texture to the tank. As with most encrusting corals, give it room to expand, and consider placing it where it won’t overtake more delicate neighbors over time.
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 the 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 it where the water current isn’t too turbulent but has a steady flow, preventing detritus from settling onto the coral. Place it in an area where it has some room to grow and encrust.
Water Flow Requirements
Moderate water flow is ideal. Aim for movement that’s enough to gently shift the coral’s polyps without blasting it directly, as this helps to keep debris from collecting on the surface and promotes healthy growth.
Aggressiveness and Compatibility
It's important to give Montipora room to grow. Like most corals, it will fight with any other corals it comes into direct contact with.
Feeding and Nutrition
This coral primarily relies on photosynthesis for energy, but can benefit from occasional additions of amino acids like CoralAmino to enhance its growth and coloration.
Growth Rate and Pattern
This coral is a steady grower with a growth pattern that is determined by the shape of the rock or surface it's encrusting over.
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.
| SKU | 256317 |
|---|---|
| Aquarium Type | Saltwater |
| Coral Type | SPS Corals |
| Species | Montipora sp. |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Lighting Requirements | Medium (150-250 PAR) |
| Flow Requirements | Medium, High |
| Temperature | Tropical (77–82°F) |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Growth Pattern | Encrusting |
| Beginner Friendly | No |
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