| SKU | 255997 |
|---|---|
| Aquarium Type | Saltwater |
| Coral Type | LPS Corals |
| Species | Acanthastrea echinata |
| Care Level | Moderate |
| Lighting Requirements | Medium (150-250 PAR) |
| Flow Requirements | Low, Medium |
| 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:Moderate (150-250 PAR)
- Flow:Low to Moderate
- Temperament:Agressive
- Placement:Rockwork
- Approximate Purchase Size:3/4″
Overview
Hypershock Acan Echinata is a high-contrast LPS coral with a swirling mix of purples, pinks, and flashes of green under actinic lighting. Its thick, fleshy polyps and encrusting growth pattern make it a bold and unique addition to any reef aquarium. This coral is known for its aggressive feeding response and strong sweeper tentacles, so it should be given ample space from other corals.
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 moderate light areas of the aquarium, ideally in the 150–250 PAR range. While it can handle lower light conditions, maintaining stable PAR levels helps preserve coloration and tissue health.
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 directly onto rockwork. Due to its aggressive nature, allow space around it to prevent damage to neighboring corals.
Water Flow Requirements
Low to moderate flow is ideal. Just enough movement to keep detritus off the tissue without irritating the fleshy polyps.
Aggressiveness and Compatibility
This coral can be aggressive and should not be placed where it is in direct contact with neighboring corals. It can extend long sweeper tentacles, particularly at night, which can sting and damage surrounding species.
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 slow to steady grower and develops an encrusting growth pattern. As it spreads across rockwork, it builds a thick skeletal base beneath its fleshy tissue.
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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