Coral Care Info Acanthastrea Lordhowensis

Acanthastrea lordhowensis, commonly known as Acan Lord or Micromussa lordhowensis, is one of the most popular and colorful large polyp stony corals in the reef aquarium hobby. Known for its bright patterns, fleshy polyps, and wide range of color combinations, this coral is a favorite for adding bold visual impact to reef tanks. Acan Lords are relatively forgiving and can thrive in stable systems with proper placement and regular feeding.

Care Requirements

Lighting (PAR Range)

• Acan Lord corals typically do best in 50-100 PAR.
• Moderate to lower lighting helps maintain vibrant coloration.
• Too much light can cause bleaching or washed-out colors.
• Always acclimate new specimens slowly, especially pieces from new arrival corals.

Flow

• Low to moderate, indirect flow is ideal.
• Flow should allow full polyp expansion without direct pressure.
• Strong flow can damage tissue and prevent extension.
• Light flow helps prevent debris buildup between polyps.

Placement

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

Aggression

• Moderately aggressive coral.
• Can extend feeder tentacles, especially at night.
• May sting nearby corals if placed too close.
• Should be spaced properly in mixed reef tanks.

Growth Rate

• Moderate growth rate under stable conditions.
• Forms multi-polyp colonies that expand outward.
• Growth improves with feeding and proper parameters.
• Stable alkalinity and calcium support skeletal growth.

Feeding

Acanthastrea lordhowensis responds very well to feeding and often shows improved color, size, and expansion when fed regularly. While it relies on photosynthesis, it actively captures food and benefits from supplemental feeding. Newly added specimens from newest corals should be given time to adjust 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 and maintain water quality.

Tank Compatibility

Acan Lords 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 colonies like zoanthids, careful positioning helps prevent contact and competition.

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

Common Problems

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

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 polyp extension regularly as a health indicator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Acan Lord the same as Micromussa?
Yes, Acanthastrea lordhowensis has been reclassified as Micromussa lordhowensis, but it is still commonly referred to as Acan Lord in the hobby.

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

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

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

Acanthastrea lordhowensis corals are a top choice for reef keepers looking to add vibrant color and texture to their aquarium. With proper care and stable conditions, they can grow into stunning colonies that stand out in any reef tank. 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.