Coral Care Info Micromussa

Micromussa corals, often referred to as “Acans” in the hobby, are colorful and highly desirable large polyp stony corals known for their fleshy polyps and vibrant patterns. They are a great choice for reef aquariums because they combine strong visual impact with relatively forgiving care requirements. Micromussa corals can grow into dense colonies and are especially popular for adding bold color to lower and mid-level areas of the tank.

Care Requirements

Lighting (PAR Range)

• Micromussa corals typically thrive in 50-100 PAR.
• Moderate to lower lighting helps maintain rich coloration and prevents stress.
• Too much light can cause bleaching or faded colors.
• Always acclimate new specimens slowly, especially pieces from new arrival corals.

Flow

• Low to moderate, indirect flow is ideal.
• Flow should be gentle enough to allow full polyp expansion.
• Strong direct flow can damage tissue and cause retraction.
• Light flow helps keep debris from settling between polyps.

Placement

• Best placed in the lower to middle areas of the aquarium.
• Can be placed on rockwork or sand depending on aquascape.
• Allow space for expansion and growth over time.
• Placement should be planned carefully in tanks with small polyp stonies corals, which may be sensitive to contact.

Aggression

• Moderately aggressive.
• Can extend feeder tentacles, especially at night.
• May sting nearby corals if placed too close.
• Should be given space in mixed reef environments.

Growth Rate

• Moderate growth rate under stable conditions.
• Forms multi-polyp colonies over time.
• Growth improves with feeding and stable parameters.
• Consistent alkalinity and calcium support healthy development.

Feeding

Micromussa corals respond very well to feeding and can show improved growth and coloration when fed regularly. While they are photosynthetic, they actively capture food and benefit from supplemental feeding. Newly introduced specimens from newest corals should be given time to settle before starting a feeding routine.

• Feed meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or coral-specific foods.
• Target feeding once or twice per week is typically sufficient.
• Ensure food is captured to prevent waste buildup.

Tank Compatibility

Micromussa are well suited for mixed reef aquariums when given proper spacing. Their fleshy polyps can be damaged by aggressive neighbors, so placement is important. In tanks that include soft corals or spreading species like zoanthids, careful positioning helps prevent contact and competition for space.

• Compatible with most reef-safe fish and invertebrates.
• Avoid placing near highly aggressive corals.
• Allow room for colony growth and expansion.

Common Problems

• Tissue recession caused by unstable parameters or excessive light.
• Damage from strong flow or nearby aggressive corals.
• Detritus buildup between polyps in low flow areas.
• Color fading due to improper lighting levels.

Tips for Success

• Provide moderate lighting and gentle flow.
• Feed regularly to enhance growth and coloration.
• Maintain stable alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium levels.
• Allow space between colonies to prevent aggression.
• Monitor regularly for changes in polyp extension.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Micromussa the same as Acan?
Yes, Micromussa lordhowensis was previously classified as Acanthastrea and is still commonly referred to as “Acan” in the hobby.

Does Micromussa need to be fed?
While it can survive on light alone, feeding improves growth, coloration, and overall health.

Can Micromussa be placed on sand?
Yes, they can be placed on sand or rock, as long as the surface is stable and not abrasive.

Is Micromussa aggressive?
They are moderately aggressive and can extend feeder tentacles, so spacing is recommended.

Micromussa corals are a top choice for reef keepers looking to add bold color and texture to their aquarium with relatively manageable care requirements. With proper placement and stable conditions, they can grow into vibrant, eye-catching colonies. You can explore similar species in our large polyp stonies corals collection, browse new additions in our new arrival coral colonies, discover standout pieces in our featured corals, learn about our systems on our facility page, and stay updated through the Extreme Corals news and updates blog.