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Information
Montipora are one of the most diverse SPS corals. They come in a wide variety of shapes and colors and have been a staple in SPS dominated aquariums as well as mixed reef tanks. As for care, they can be sensitive to changes in tank parameters as well as demanding of both high flow and high light for peak health and coloration. Montipora is one of the easier to maintain SPS corals and grows rapidly in the established reef aquarium.
Lighting
Montipora are light-loving corals. We always recommend placing them high up on the rockwork where they will receive plenty of light. We aim to keep most of our Montipora in 200-300 PAR.
Too little light can cause Montipora to turn brown, if this happens raise the coral in your tank or increase your light intensity. This is a slow process, however, assuming it has good flow and your water chemistry is stable it will regain its color.
Water Flow
In terms of flow, Montipora polyps should constantly be getting blown around in various directions. This is a good indication that you have the coral in strong randomized flow.
Good flow is also important to ensure the underside of the colony remains healthy. Often as Montipora colonies grow larger the sides that stop receiving light will lose their polyp extension and their color. While this is inevitable to some extent, we find that stronger flow will keep the underside of the colony looking healthier and more colorful.
Feeding
Montipora relies heavily on the products of their zooxanthellae but to a lesser degree may feed on phytoplankton and similarly sized microfauna in the water column.
Warning and Handling
We recommend you give them plenty of space as they will be aggressive towards their neighbours.