Gold Hammer Coral (Euphyllia ancora) – Description & Care
The Gold Hammer Coral is a premium and highly sought-after variety of Euphyllia ancora, recognized for its bright golden-yellow tentacles with hammer-shaped tips. The gold coloration can range from soft pastel yellows to intense neon gold, often with hints of green or orange, depending on lighting and water quality. This LPS coral brings both color and movement to reef aquariums, making it a prized addition for collectors.
Care Requirements:
1. Lighting
- Moderate to High (PAR 80-200)
- Best under LED or T5 lighting, with proper acclimation to avoid stress.
- Blue spectrum lighting enhances its golden hue.
- Too much light can cause retraction or bleaching, while too little can result in dull colors.
2. Flow
- Moderate, Indirect Flow
- Prefers gentle, random flow to keep tentacles swaying naturally.
- Strong flow can cause retraction, stress, or tissue damage.
3. Placement
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Mid to lower tank regions, depending on light intensity.
- Needs at least 4-6 inches of space from non-Euphyllia corals due to sweeper tentacles.
- Can be placed near other Euphyllia corals (frogspawn, torch, or other hammers), as they often tolerate each other.
4. Water Parameters
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Temperature: 76-80°F (24-27°C)
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Salinity: 1.025 SG (35 ppt)
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pH: 8.1-8.4
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Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH
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Calcium: 400-450 ppm
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Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm
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Nitrates: 5-10 ppm
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Phosphates: 0.01-0.05 ppm
5. Feeding
- Photosynthetic but benefits from supplemental feeding.
- Target feed 1-2 times per week with meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, and powdered coral foods (e.g., Reef Roids).
- Regular feeding enhances growth, polyp extension, and coloration.
6. Tank Mates & Compatibility
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Safe with other Euphyllia corals (frogspawn, torch, or other hammers) as they typically do not sting each other.
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Aggressive toward non-Euphyllia corals, so ensure adequate spacing.
- Safe with most reef-safe fish and invertebrates, but avoid coral-nipping fish like large angelfish and butterflyfish.
- Clownfish may attempt to host, but excessive interaction can stress the coral.
7. Special Considerations
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Sweeper tentacles extend at night, so leave extra space between corals.
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Acclimate slowly to prevent light or flow shock.
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Fragile skeleton—handle carefully to prevent fractures.
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Dip before adding to the tank to prevent pests and infections like brown jelly disease.
