Elkhorn Hirsuta Monti (WYSIWYG)

Motipora Coral (Motipora spp.) is a type of small polyp stony (SPS) coral belonging to the family Acroporidae. Known for its delicate branches and vibrant colors, this coral is highly prized in the reef aquarium trade. It is often found in shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific and is closely related to other Acropora species, making it a popular choice for reef tanks that house a variety of SPS corals.

Description of Motipora Coral:

• Appearance:

  • Motipora corals can have a branching or encrusting growth form, and their branches may be fine, delicate, or sometimes thick, depending on the species.
  • Their color can vary widely, ranging from shades of green, blue, purple, pink, and red. Some species also exhibit a mix of colors with intricate patterns.
  • The polyps are small but dense, contributing to their intricate appearance. Under strong lighting, the polyps will extend, giving the coral a "fuzzy" or "feathery" look.

• Species Diversity: There are different species within the Motipora genus, each with distinct features. Some of the popular varieties in the aquarium hobby include Motipora digitata and Motipora capricornis.

Care Guide for Motipora Coral:

Motipora corals require precise care to thrive in a reef aquarium. These corals are known for being somewhat challenging to keep, so beginners should be cautious. Here’s a guide to help maintain a healthy Motipora coral:

1. Lighting Requirements:

• Intensity: Motipora corals are photosynthetic and need strong lighting. Use high-intensity LEDs or metal halides (150W to 250W) to provide the necessary light levels, ideally around 200–400 PAR (photosynthetically active radiation) at the coral's location in the tank.
• Spectrum: Aim for a spectrum of 14,000K to 20,000K, as this range supports both the growth and color of the coral, mimicking natural reef conditions.

2. Water Parameters:

• Salinity: Maintain a salinity of 1.024 to 1.026 specific gravity (SG).
• pH: Keep the pH levels between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Alkalinity: Alkalinity should be between 8–12 dKH (degree of carbonate hardness).
• Calcium: Maintain calcium levels between 400–450 ppm (parts per million) for optimal skeletal growth.
• Magnesium: Magnesium levels should be around 1250–1350 ppm.
• Temperature: Keep the tank temperature between 76°F and 80°F (24°C–27°C).
• Nitrate and Phosphate: Nitrate should be below 5–10 ppm, and phosphate levels should be under 0.03 ppm to prevent algae blooms and maintain coral health.

3. Water Flow:

• Motipora corals prefer moderate to strong water flow. They require good water circulation to facilitate the exchange of nutrients and oxygen while helping to remove waste products. Random or turbulent water flow mimicking ocean currents is ideal for their growth.
• However, avoid direct, strong currents that might damage the delicate branches or cause them to become dislodged.

4. Feeding:

• While Motipora corals obtain most of their nutrition through photosynthesis from their symbiotic zooxanthellae algae, they can benefit from supplemental feeding.
• Phytoplankton: Offering high-quality phytoplankton or small zooplankton (e.g., rotifers or copepods) a few times per week can promote better growth and color, especially in low-nutrient systems.
• Aminos & Coral Foods: Some reef keepers also offer amino acid supplements or specialized coral foods for added nutrition.

5. Placement in the Tank:

• Motipora corals are best placed on the middle or upper levels of the reef tank to receive adequate light.
• They should be positioned where they will not be shaded by larger corals or other obstacles and where there is appropriate water flow.
• Ensure they are not crowded by other corals, as Motipora corals can be aggressive, particularly when they feel their space is being encroached upon.

6. Maintenance:

• Pruning: Regular pruning is necessary to control the growth and shape of Motipora. If the coral grows too quickly or aggressively, it may overtake other corals or encroach on neighboring corals.
• Testing Water Parameters: Monitor water parameters consistently, especially calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium, as SPS corals have high demands for these elements.
• Algae Control: Keep algae under control, as Motipora corals do not compete well for light and space against algae. Ensure the tank has proper filtration, protein skimming, and perhaps even an algae-eating cleanup crew (e.g., snails, herbivorous fish).

7. Challenges and Troubleshooting:

• Slow Growth: If the coral is growing slowly or not coloring up, it could be due to insufficient lighting, poor water quality, or an inappropriate nutrient balance.
• Brown or Dull Coloration: A lack of strong enough lighting or unstable water parameters can cause Motipora corals to lose their vibrant colors, turning them brown or dull.
• Amebicide or Pest Issues: Occasionally, Motipora corals may suffer from pests, such as flatworms, red bugs, or other small invertebrates. Keep an eye out for signs of pest infestations.

Conclusion:

Motipora corals can be a beautiful and rewarding addition to a reef tank, but they require careful attention to lighting, water parameters, and flow. With proper care, they can grow into vibrant, colorful colonies that bring life to your reef aquarium. For intermediate to advanced hobbyists, Motipora corals offer an exciting challenge and the opportunity to showcase their reef tank skills.