Acanthastrea echinata (Ultra) | M

Acanthastrea echinata (Ultra) is a visually captivating large polyp stony (LPS) coral belonging to the Mussidae family. Known for its bold, fluorescent colours and fleshy polyps, this medium-sized specimen adds dramatic appeal to any marine reef aquarium.

Lighting: Moderate lighting is recommended, such as T5 or LED systems with a PAR range of 50-150. Avoid intense direct light to prevent bleaching.

Water Flow: Provide low to moderate water flow to ensure adequate nutrient delivery without damaging the delicate polyps.

Placement: Position this coral on the substrate or lower to middle sections of the rockwork. Ensure sufficient spacing from neighbouring corals to prevent aggressive interactions, as Acanthastrea echinata can extend sweeper tentacles.

Care Level: Suitable for intermediate to advanced hobbyists due to its specific lighting and flow needs.

Diet: Primarily photosynthetic via symbiotic zooxanthellae, but benefits from supplemental feeding of meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or specialised coral foods 1-2 times weekly.

Compatibility: Reef safe with adequate spacing; avoid placing near aggressive or fast-growing corals.

Regular water parameter maintenance is essential: stable temperature (24-27°C), salinity (1.023-1.025 SG), calcium (400-450 ppm), alkalinity (8-12 dKH), and magnesium (1250-1350 ppm) support healthy growth.