hammer coral

 

 

 Origin and Description:

 Hammer Coral (Euphyllia ancora) is a popular species of LPS (Large Polyp Stony) coral that belongs to the Euphyllia genus. It is native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Great Barrier Reef, Fiji, and Indonesia.

 Hammer Coral gets its name from its hammer-shaped tentacles, which resemble the head of a hammer.

 It comes in various colors, including green, brown, pink, and gold.

 

 Tank Setup:

 Tank Size: Hammer Coral can be kept in medium to large-sized aquariums. A minimum tank size of 30 gallons is recommended for a small colony.

 Substrate: Use a fine sandy substrate or live rock for the coral to attach and grow on. Hammer Coral can also be glued or mounted on rock or coral frag plugs.

  Water Flow: Moderate water flow is ideal for Hammer Coral. Ensure good circulation to provide nutrients and prevent detritus from settling on the coral.

  Lighting: Hammer Coral requires moderate to high-intensity lighting. LED lights or T5 fluorescent lights with a spectrum that includes blue and white colors are commonly used. Adjust the lighting intensity based on the specific needs of your coral.

 

 Water Parameters:

 Temperature: Maintain a stable temperature between 75°F to 80°F (24°C to 27°C).

 Salinity: Keep salinity levels between 1.023 and 1.025.

 pH: Maintain a pH level between 8.1 and 8.4.

 Alkalinity, Calcium, and Magnesium: Regularly test and maintain appropriate levels for the healthy growth of the coral. These parameters are crucial for the formation of the coral's calcium carbonate skeleton.

  Nitrate and Phosphate: Keep nitrate levels below 5 ppm and phosphate levels below 0.03 ppm to prevent excessive algae growth, which can harm Hammer Coral.

 

 Feeding:

 Hammer Coral is primarily photosynthetic and gains a significant portion of its nutrition from the symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae present in its tissues. These algae use light to perform photosynthesis and provide the coral with energy. However, Hammer Coral can also capture small food particles from the water column. Weekly target feeding with small meaty foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, or zooplankton.