TSA Exquisita Acropora Coral

Exquisita Acropora Coral (Acropora exquisita) thrives with strong, stable conditions and high, blue-heavy light. Target 250–400 PAR and introduce light gradually using a screen method or by starting lower and moving up over 2–3 weeks. Provide strong, random flow (30–50x tank turnover) to keep polyps clean and prevent detritus buildup; use alternating pumps or a gyre pattern. Place high on the rockwork with room to grow upward and outward; keep 3–5 inches from neighbors to avoid shading and sting contact. Peaceful overall, but fast-growing branches can overtake slower corals. Feed sparingly 1–2x weekly with fine particulate foods (e.g., reef roids, rotifers) and occasional amino acids; maintain measurable nutrients to avoid pale tissue (nitrate 2–10 ppm, phosphate 0.02–0.07 ppm).Aim for ultra-stable water: temperature 24–26°C/75–79°F, salinity 1.025–1.026, alkalinity 7.5–9 dKH (avoid swings), calcium 420–460 ppm, magnesium 1300–1400 ppm, pH 8.0–8.4. Test alkalinity frequently when dialing in dosing; use automated dosing once consumption is known. Inspect and dip new frags; quarantine to prevent red bugs or Acropora-eating flatworms. Mount on solid rock with epoxy and allow encrustment before pushing light/flow higher. Signs to watch: bleaching (too much light or too little nutrients), tissue recession (alk swings, pests, sudden temp/salinity changes), browning (low light/high nutrients). Correct by stabilizing parameters, adjusting light/flow, and treating pests promptly.