| SKU | 256327 |
|---|---|
| Aquarium Type | Saltwater |
| Coral Type | LPS Corals |
| Species | Blastomussa merletti |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Lighting Requirements | Low (75-150 PAR) |
| Flow Requirements | Low |
| Temperature | Tropical (77–82°F) |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Growth Pattern | Encrusting |
| Beginner Friendly | No |
Quick Stats
- Care Level:Moderate
- Coral Type:LPS (Large Polyp Stony)
- Lighting Requirement:Low (75-150 PAR)
- Flow:Low
- Temperament:Peaceful
- Placement:Rockwork
- Approximate Purchase Size:3/4″
Overview
The ECC Blue Raven Blasto Merletti is a hardy and rewarding coral, perfect for those looking to get into LPS as well as seasoned reef keepers. Known for its dense polyp structure and steady growth, Blastos like this one are an excellent option for filling in lower-light areas of your aquascape. It thrives under lower light and flow conditions and responds well to feeding, often displaying increased fullness and faster tissue expansion 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 lower light areas of the aquarium, ideally in the 75-150 PAR range. Avoid placing it directly under intense lighting without acclimation, as the polyps can become stressed or retract. Gradual light acclimation helps maintain its vibrant coloration and healthy polyp extension.
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
This coral is most often placed on rockwork in a stable, low-traffic area of the tank. Avoid placing it near more aggressive LPS or corals with long sweeper tentacles unless proper spacing is provided.
Water Flow Requirements
Low to moderate flow is ideal. Enough flow should be provided to keep debris from settling between the fleshy polyps, but not so much that it causes excessive movement or tissue recession.
Aggressiveness and Compatibility
While this coral isn’t particularly aggressive, they will inevitably fight any corals they come into direct contact with.
Feeding and Nutrition
This coral primarily relies on photosynthesis for energy, but can benefit from occasional feedings with coral foods such as Reef Chili and amino acids like CoralAmino to enhance its growth and coloration.
Growth Rate and Pattern
This coral is a steady grower and has a mounding, encrusting growth pattern. It will slowly expand over rockwork as it builds out its skeleton and adds new polyps over time.
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.
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