Common name: Acropora tumida

General information

Acropora tumida is a species of stony coral that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts for its robustness and beautiful branching structure. This coral is part of the Acroporidae family, which is known for its fast growth rates and contribution to reef building in the wild. Acropora tumida exhibits a variety of colors, ranging from pale browns to vibrant greens and blues under appropriate lighting conditions.

Care

Acropora tumida requires moderate to high lighting and strong water flow to thrive in captivity. It is important to maintain stable water parameters, particularly calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels, to support its skeletal growth. This species benefits from the addition of trace elements and occasional feeding of microplankton or other coral foods.

Symbiosis

While not hosting large organisms like fish or shrimp, Acropora tumida can have a symbiotic relationship with small crustaceans and worms that live within its branches. These tiny symbionts can help keep the coral clean from detritus and algae.

Habitat

In the wild, Acropora tumida is found in shallow reef environments, typically in areas with strong wave action. It is a resilient species that can adapt to various reef conditions, making it a suitable candidate for aquarists looking to add a hardy and attractive stony coral to their tanks.