Acan Corals: A Beginner's Guide
For any reef hobbyist, Acan corals can be a great addition to their marine tank. These easy-to-care-for corals come in a wide range of colors, from bright greens and reds to deep blues and purples. However, with the rise of popularity, many hobbyists are still unaware of the various types of Acan corals and how to care for them.
In this guide, we will go through the best practices that every beginner or experienced reef hobbyist must know to keep their Acan corals healthy and thriving in their marine aquarium.
What are Acan Corals?
Acan corals are species of corals that belong to the family of Mussidae. They are generally characterized by large, fleshy polyps that form dome-shaped colonies on the reef. These corals are found mostly in the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
Types of Acan Corals
Acan corals exhibit a great variation in their colors and patterns, making them a popular choice among reef hobbyists. Here are some of the common types of Acan corals that you can find in your marine aquarium:
- Acanthastrea Lordhowensis: This species of Acan coral is also known as the "Aussie Acan." It is found in the waters around Australia and has vibrant colors of green, blue, and red.
- Acanthastrea Echinata: Also known as the "Tubastrea" or "Hollywood Stunner," this Acan species has large polyps that can range from brown to bright green in color.
- Acanthastrea Rotundoflavia: This species is characterized by its huge polyps that can range in color from pale green to deep blue. It typically has a rough, bumpy texture on its skeleton.
How to Care for Acan Corals
Acan corals need a stable, nutrient-rich and well-lit aquarium with strong water flow. Follow these tips to ensure the best environment for your Acan coral colony:
- Lighting: Acan corals prefer moderate to high lighting levels. For maximum growth and color vibrancy, opt for LED lights that mimic the spectrum of natural sunlight.
- Water flow: Acan corals like moderate to strong water flow. Make sure to position your powerheads strategically, so water flows evenly around the reef to prevent debris buildup or stagnation in dead spots.
- Water parameters: Keep the water parameters stable, with pH levels around 8.1 - 8.3 and alkalinity between 8-12 dKH. Ensure the water temperature is between 77 and 81 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Nutritional requirements: Acan corals are photosynthetic but, to thrive, they also require a varied diet that includes phytoplankton, zooplankton and other small organisms, as well as supplements such as trace elements and calcium.
Acan corals are stunning, hardy, and easy-to-maintain additions to any marine aquarium. With the right conditions, they will grow into magnificent colonies with vibrant colors and unique patterns. Follow the tips outlined above, and you'll be able to successfully care for your Acan coral colony and maintain a healthy reef ecosystem in your tank.
If you're looking to buy Acan corals online, be sure to search for "Open Acan corals," "Acans for sale," or "Best Acan Corals," and choose a reputable supplier known for quality corals and exceptional customer service.
Check out our other blogs and guides for Corals at Koralkingdom.com