Hammer Coral (Euphyllia ancora), also known as Anchor Coral, is a popular and striking coral species widely appreciated for its unique appearance and relatively straightforward care. Here’s a detailed guide on its care and characteristics:
Description
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Appearance: Hammer Coral is renowned for its distinctive, hammer-shaped or "anchor-shaped" polyps. The polyps have long, bulbous tips that resemble a hammer's head, hence the name. They come in various colors, including green, purple, yellow, and brown, often with vibrant tips that can add a beautiful contrast to your reef tank.
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Structure: The coral features a branching structure with polyps extending from a central skeleton. Each polyp has a thick, fleshy base and elongated tentacles that can spread out and sway in the water flow.
Care Requirements
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Lighting:
- Intensity: Prefers moderate to high lighting. It can tolerate bright light, but it should be acclimated gradually to avoid stress or bleaching.
- Type: LED or T5 fluorescent lighting is suitable. A balanced spectrum that includes both blue and white light is ideal for promoting vibrant colors and healthy growth.
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Water Flow:
- Strength: Thrives in moderate water flow. Gentle to moderate flow helps keep debris away and ensures the coral receives nutrients without causing physical damage to its delicate tentacles.
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Water Conditions:
- Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature range of 72-78°F (22-26°C).
- Salinity: Keep salinity between 1.023 and 1.025 specific gravity.
- pH: Aim for a pH range of 8.1-8.4.
- Calcium: Maintain calcium levels between 400-450 ppm.
- Alkalinity: Keep alkalinity at 8-12 dKH.
- Nitrates and Phosphates: Maintain low levels of both to prevent algae overgrowth and ensure the coral's health.
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Feeding:
- Diet: Hammer Coral is a filter feeder but can also capture small plankton and organic particles from the water. Supplement its diet with finely chopped meaty foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, or specialized coral foods.
- Frequency: Feed once or twice a week, adjusting based on the coral’s response and overall tank conditions.
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Placement:
- Position: Place the coral in a stable, secure location where it can receive indirect to moderate light. Ensure it has enough space to expand its tentacles without being crowded by other corals or tank inhabitants.
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Maintenance:
- Pruning: Regularly check the coral for any dead or damaged polyps and remove them to prevent disease and maintain overall health.
- Water Quality: Conduct regular water changes (10-20% weekly) and monitor water parameters to keep the environment stable.
Additional Tips
- Compatibility: Hammer Coral is generally peaceful but can have stinging tentacles that may harm neighboring corals. Provide adequate space between it and other corals to prevent aggression and ensure it has room to grow.
- Propagation: This coral can be propagated by fragmentation. Carefully cut a healthy branch or polyp and attach it to a new substrate, making sure it is secured until it attaches and begins to grow.
By providing the appropriate lighting, water flow, and care, your Hammer Coral can thrive and become a stunning focal point in your reef aquarium. Its unique appearance and vibrant colors will enhance the overall beauty of your tank