Common name: Acropora pulchra

Scientific name: Acropora pulchra (Brook, 1891)
Tropical fish double-saddle butterflyfish over staghorn coral, underwater in the lagoon, Pacific ocean, Huahine, French Polynesia
Healthy table coral (acropora pulchra) branch coral with sun raysmacro closeup of a stony coral specie, colony of corals, marine life background

General information

Acropora pulchra, commonly known as Branching Acropora or Staghorn Coral, is a species of small polyp stony (SPS) coral renowned for its intricate branching structure and vibrant colors, which can range from green to pink or purple. This coral is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts for its aesthetic appeal and the dynamic reefscapes it can create.

Details

Lighting
200 to 350 PAR
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.025
Temperature
25 to 28 °C (77 to 82 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Care level
Moderate to easy Sensitive to water quality.
Flow
Moderate Mimics natural habitat.
Aggression
Peaceful

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Cnidarians
    Cnidaria
  3. Class
    Anthozoans
    Anthozoa
  4. Order
    Stony Corals
    Scleractinia
  5. Family
    Acroporidae
    Acroporidae
  6. Genus
    Acropora
    Acropora
  7. Species
    Acropora pulchra
    Acropora pulchra (Brook, 1891)
  8. Synonyms
    Acropora pulchra alveolata Brook, 1893
    Madrepora pulchra Brook, 1891
    Madrepora pulchra alveolata Brook, 1893

Care

Acropora pulchra requires stable water conditions and intense lighting to thrive in captivity. It benefits from moderate to strong water flow, which helps to deliver nutrients and remove waste products. Calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels should be maintained within optimal ranges to support skeletal growth. Targeted feeding with microplankton or coral foods can promote health and coloration.

Symbiosis

Like many Acropora species, A. pulchra may host a variety of reef-dwelling creatures, including small crustaceans and fish. These symbiotic relationships often provide the coral with additional cleaning and aeration, while the inhabitants gain shelter and protection.

Habitat

In the wild, Acropora pulchra is found in shallow reef environments where sunlight is abundant. It is commonly seen in the Indo-Pacific region, forming extensive colonies that contribute to the complex structure of coral reefs and serve as habitats for numerous marine organisms.