Hammer corals, scientifically known as Euphyllia ancora or Euphyllia parancora, are a popular choice among reef aquarium enthusiasts. Their unique appearance and vibrant colors make them a stunning addition to any saltwater tank. In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of hammer corals, including their characteristics, care requirements, and tips for maintaining a healthy and thriving colony in your aquarium.
Hammer Corals Appearance and Characteristics
Hammer corals belong to the family Euphylliidae and are native to the Indo-Pacific region. They feature large, fleshy polyps that extend outward, resembling the head of a hammer or a branching torch. The polyps have tentacles that possess stinging cells called nematocysts, which they use for feeding and protection.
Hammer corals come in various colors, including shades of green, brown, pink, and even fluorescent variations, adding a vibrant touch to any aquarium.
Hammer Lighting and Placement
Proper lighting is crucial for the health and growth of hammer corals. They require moderate to high lighting levels, preferably provided by LED fixtures or metal halide lamps.
Placing the corals in the middle to lower sections of the tank, where they can receive indirect light, is recommended. Direct exposure to intense lighting can cause bleaching or tissue damage, so it’s important to acclimate the corals gradually to higher light levels if necessary.
LPS Coral Water Parameters and Flow
Maintaining stable reef tank parameters is essential for the well-being of hammer corals. They thrive in a reef aquarium with a temperature range of 75-80°F (24-27°C) and a salinity of 1.024-1.026. The pH level should be maintained between 8.1 and 8.4, and alkalinity levels should range from 8 to 12 dKH. Moderate to strong water flow is beneficial for hammer corals, as it helps to remove debris and deliver nutrients to their polyps.
Hammer Corals Feeding and Nutrition
Hammer corals are primarily photosynthetic and derive a significant portion of their nutrition through photosynthesis. They have a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae, which are photosynthetic algae living within their tissues.
However, they also possess extended sweeper tentacles that they use to capture small zooplankton (copepods) and organic matter in the water column. Supplementing their diet with marine-based coral foods containing zooplankton or phytoplankton can promote better growth and vibrant coloration.
Reef Energy Plus also known as Red Sea AB+ is one of the products offered by Red Sea, specifically designed to provide nutrition and energy to corals in marine and reef aquariums. It is an enhanced version of their original Reef Energy A and B supplements and is targeted at supporting the growth and vitality of corals, particularly SPS (small-polyped stony) and LPS (large-polyped stony) corals such as hammer corals
Hammer Coral Maintenance and Propagation
Regular reef tank maintenance practices are necessary to keep hammer corals thriving in your aquarium. It’s important to monitor water parameters, perform routine water changes, and remove any excess debris or detritus that may accumulate around the coral.
Hammer corals can be propagated through fragmentation, where a piece of the coral’s skeleton is carefully broken off and attached to a new substrate. Patience and proper care are key to successful propagation.
Hammer corals are a captivating addition to reef aquariums, with their unique hammer-shaped polyps and vivid colors. By providing them with the right conditions, such as appropriate reef lighting, water parameters, and feeding, you can enjoy the beauty of these corals while contributing to the overall health of your marine ecosystem.
Remember to research and understand their specific care requirements before adding hammer corals to your aquarium, and always strive to provide them with a stable and nurturing environment.
