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The Montipora Family
Montipora is one of the most diverse species of SPS corals. A wide variety of shapes and colors are the reason for its extreme popularity in SPS-dominated aquariums as well as in mixed reef aquariums.
As for care, they can be sensitive to changes in water parameters in the aquarium, and they require high water flow and high light to achieve perfect health and coloration.
See below for more care tips for Montipora.
Location
Indo-Pacific - Montiporas have a wide distribution and are commonly found around Indo-Pacific islands, including Fiji, Tonga, the Solomon Islands, and the Great Barrier Reef.
Lighting
Montipora loves light. Intense lighting is recommended to maintain the best coloration and health of the coral. Use strong lighting such as a set of appropriately sized fluorescent bulbs for the aquarium or suitable LEDs. Without adequate lighting, Montipora colors may start to fade. Like other SPS, such as Acropora, Montipora corals can change color dramatically depending on the type and spectrum of light provided. Expect some color changes when introducing Montipora to your system.
Low light intensity |
Low light intensity is between 30 - 50 PAR per unit area |
Medium light intensity |
Medium light intensity is between 50 - 150 PAR per unit area |
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High light intensity |
High light intensity is above 150 PAR per unit area |
Water Flow
Medium to high water flow is recommended for Montipora coral. Like most SPS, hobbyists have successfully kept Montipora in aquariums with high water flow.
Water flow helps move debris that can settle on the coral, as well as brings vital nutrients to its polyps.
Feeding
Montipora relies heavily on the products of its zooxanthellae, but to a lesser extent, it can feed on plankton and zooplankton from the water column. We do not find it completely necessary to feed Montipora, but they can benefit from the presence of rotifers or plankton.
Special Care
Montipora is a diverse genus of small stony corals (SPS). There is a wide variety of shapes and colors, depending on where they were collected. Under proper conditions, they grow rapidly and exhibit wonderful coloration. They are much hardier corals than Acropora, as they do not bleach as quickly and are more resistant to coral diseases, all while maintaining stunning colors that any Reef Aquarium deserves. Be cautious with corals placed near Montipora. They lack potent nematocysts and will lose most territorial battles.
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