How do I keep the signature deep red color on TGC Red Cadillac Acropora?

Aim for stable alkalinity (7.5–8.5 dKH) and moderate nutrients (nitrate 5–15 ppm, phosphate 0.03–0.08 ppm). Provide strong blue-heavy light at 300–400 PAR with high, chaotic flow. Avoid excessive white light that can wash reds. Regular, small water changes and balanced trace elements—especially potassium and iron—support reds. Increase PAR gradually over weeks to prevent paling.

What growth behavior should I expect, and how should I place it?

This coral often lays down a thick base before pushing dense branches. Give it 3–4 inches of space and strong cross-flow to keep detritus off the base. Mount at a slight angle to reduce self-shading and encourage even branching. Avoid shadowy ledges; consistent light to the base helps prevent tissue recession from the bottom up.

My Red Cadillac’s polyp extension is reduced and color looks flat—what should I check first?

Verify no alk swings over 0.3 dKH/day, and check for pests (AEFW bite marks, red bugs) with a white-light inspection and dip if needed. Ensure strong, random flow reaches the base. If nutrients are ultra-low, lightly increase feeding. If running intense UV/blue, reduce 10–15% and ramp back slowly after stability returns.

Are there unique compatibility concerns with nearby corals or tank mates?

Keep stinging LPS and sweeper-tentacle species several inches away; contact leads to rapid tissue loss. Run fresh carbon to reduce chemical warfare in mixed reefs. Avoid shading from fast-growing acros above it. Consider hosting Acropora-dwelling crabs for natural grooming and improved polyp behavior. Maintain stable temperature and avoid sudden nutrient or light changes during neighboring coral maintenance.

TGC Red Cadillac Acropora Coral

Acropora

Overview

TGC Red Cadillac Acropora Coral displays vivid red branch tips with compact, upward-growing branches. Acropora sp., a branching small-polyp stony coral, prefers strong lighting and high, variable water flow. It relies on symbiotic algae for energy, and occasional small particulate foods can support growth and color. Place high on stable rockwork with space from stinging corals, and keep water parameters stable.

Quick Facts

Care Difficult

Lighting High

Flow High

Placement High

Temperament Peaceful (3–4 inches spacing)

Recommended Parameters

Temp 78–80°F

pH 8.2–8.4

Salinity 1.025–1.026

Calcium 400–450 ppm

AlkAlkalinity 8–9 dKH

Magnesium 1280–1350 ppm

Feeding photosynthetic (primary), microplankton, rotifers, copepod nauplii, oyster eggs, reef-specific powdered coral foods

Care & Placement

TGC Red Cadillac Acropora Coral (Acropora sp.) thrives under strong, stable conditions with high light and vigorous, random flow. Target 250–350 PAR with gradual light acclimation over 1–2 weeks to avoid bleaching; use diffused lighting if color washes out. Provide strong, turbulent flow (alternating/gyre) to keep tissue clean, prevent detritus buildup, and promote polyp extension. Primarily photosynthetic; feed lightly 1–2x weekly with fine zooplankton or amino acids to support color and growth without spiking nutrients. Key parameters: temperature 75–78°F (24–26°C), salinity 1.025–1.026, pH 8.1–8.4, alkalinity 8.0–9.5 dKH (keep stable), calcium 420–460 ppm, magnesium 1300–1400 ppm, nitrate 2–10 ppm, phosphate 0.02–0.08 ppm, ammonia/nitrite 0. Test regularly; automate dosing once consumption is known, and consider periodic ICP tests. Sensitive to swings, especially alkalinity and temperature.Place high on rockwork with clear, unshaded access to light and flow. Allow 2–3+ inches from neighbors; Acropora is generally non-aggressive but can overgrow and lose to stinging LPS and soft corals. Use carbon if mixing with softies. Dip and inspect new frags (check for AEFW, red bugs), temperature-acclimate, and reduce light initially. Mount securely with gel glue and ensure flow around the base to prevent recession. Troubleshooting: pale/bleached = too much light or too-clean nutrients; brown = low light or high nutrients; STN/RTN = parameter swings or pests—stabilize, frag healthy sections, and address the cause. Regular maintenance and stability are the keys to success.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

About the TGC Red Cadillac Acropora Coral

How do I keep the signature deep red color on TGC Red Cadillac Acropora?

Aim for stable alkalinity (7.5–8.5 dKH) and moderate nutrients (nitrate 5–15 ppm, phosphate 0.03–0.08 ppm). Provide strong blue-heavy light at 300–400 PAR with high, chaotic flow. Avoid excessive white light that can wash reds. Regular, small water changes and balanced trace elements—especially potassium and iron—support reds. Increase PAR gradually over weeks to prevent paling.
What growth behavior should I expect, and how should I place it?

This coral often lays down a thick base before pushing dense branches. Give it 3–4 inches of space and strong cross-flow to keep detritus off the base. Mount at a slight angle to reduce self-shading and encourage even branching. Avoid shadowy ledges; consistent light to the base helps prevent tissue recession from the bottom up.
My Red Cadillac’s polyp extension is reduced and color looks flat—what should I check first?

Verify no alk swings over 0.3 dKH/day, and check for pests (AEFW bite marks, red bugs) with a white-light inspection and dip if needed. Ensure strong, random flow reaches the base. If nutrients are ultra-low, lightly increase feeding. If running intense UV/blue, reduce 10–15% and ramp back slowly after stability returns.
Are there unique compatibility concerns with nearby corals or tank mates?

Keep stinging LPS and sweeper-tentacle species several inches away; contact leads to rapid tissue loss. Run fresh carbon to reduce chemical warfare in mixed reefs. Avoid shading from fast-growing acros above it. Consider hosting Acropora-dwelling crabs for natural grooming and improved polyp behavior. Maintain stable temperature and avoid sudden nutrient or light changes during neighboring coral maintenance.