Echinata Green and Orange

Caring for Echinata coral (Acanthastrea echinata) can be rewarding, but it requires attention to water conditions and placement. This coral, often found in reef aquariums, is a large polyp stony (LPS) coral known for its bright colors and aggressive behavior. Here’s a detailed care guide:

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: 20 gallons or larger recommended, though it can adapt to smaller tanks.

• Placement: Place in low to moderate areas of the tank, with enough room from other corals to avoid stinging.

Lighting

• Type: Moderate lighting (LEDs or T5s work well).

• Intensity: Aim for PAR levels between 50-150.

• Tips: Avoid overly bright light to prevent bleaching. Acclimate slowly to changes in lighting intensity.

Water Flow

• Flow Type: Moderate, indirect flow to avoid damaging the coral’s flesh.

• Tips: Avoid direct powerhead blasts. Gentle, varied flow patterns help remove debris from the coral surface.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 76-82°F (24-28°C)

• pH: 8.0-8.4

• Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH

• Calcium: 400-450 ppm

• Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm

• Salinity: 1.024-1.026 SG

Feeding

• Echinata corals benefit from supplemental feeding, especially at night.

• Food Types:

• Small meaty foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, or chopped krill.

• Reef supplements such as amino acids and coral food powders.

• Frequency: 1-2 times per week. Use a turkey baster or coral feeder to target-feed.

Aggressiveness and Placement Tips

• Echinata is an aggressive coral that extends sweeper tentacles at night to sting nearby corals.

• Tip: Maintain at least 4-6 inches of space from other corals to avoid stinging.

Maintenance

• Regular water changes (10-20% monthly) help keep parameters stable.

• Monitor for pests and disease; Echinata corals can be susceptible to tissue recession.

By ensuring stable water parameters, moderate lighting, and careful placement, you can enjoy a healthy and vibrant Echinata coral in your reef tank.