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Montipora capricornis Green Blue Polyp
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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 contribute to its extreme popularity in SPS-dominated aquariums as well as mixed reef aquariums.
In terms of care, they can be sensitive to changes in water parameters in the aquarium, as well as requiring high water flow and high light to achieve perfect health and coloration.
See below for more care tips for Montipora.
Location
Indo-Pacific - Montipora has a wide distribution and is typically found around islands in the Indo-Pacific, 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 fluorescent bulbs sized for the aquarium or appropriate LEDs. Without adequate lighting, Montipora colors may begin to fade. Like other SPS corals such as Acropora, Montipora corals can change color drastically depending on the type and spectrum of light provided. Expect some color changes when introducing Montipora to your system.
Low Light |
Low light is between 30 - 50 PAR per unit area |
Medium Light |
Medium light is between 50 - 150 PAR per unit area |
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High Light |
High light is above 150 PAR per unit area |
Water Flow
Medium to preferably 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 to move debris that may settle on top of the coral, as well as bringing vital nutrients to its polyps.
Feeding
Montipora relies heavily on zooxanthellae products, but to a lesser degree can feed on phytoplankton and zooplankton from the water column. We do not find it completely necessary to feed Montipora, but they may benefit from the presence of rotifers or phytoplankton.
Special Care
Montipora is a diverse genus of small stony corals with small polyps (SPS). There is a wide variety of shapes and colors depending on where they were collected. Under proper conditions, they grow quickly 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, while still maintaining stunning colors that any Reef Aquarium deserves. Be careful with corals placed near Montipora. They do not have potent nematocysts and will lose most territorial battles.
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