Care Requirements of Acanthastrea Lordhowensis in Home Reef Aquariums

Introduction to Acanthastrea Lordhowensis

Acanthastrea Lordhowensis, commonly known as "Acan Lord" or "Lords," is a stunning Large Polyp Stony (LPS) coral prized for its vibrant colors, fleshy polyps, and ease of care. Found in a variety of color morphs, including reds, oranges, greens, purples, and blues, this coral is a favorite among reef keepers. With a colonial growth pattern, it forms large, fleshy polyps that create a visually appealing and dynamic display in any reef tank.

Natural Habitat and Location in the Wild

Acanthastrea Lordhowensis is native to the Indo-Pacific, particularly in Australia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and the Great Barrier Reef. It is typically found in sheltered reef environments, lagoons, and deeper reef slopes, where it grows on rocky substrates and coral rubble. These areas provide moderate water flow and indirect lighting, ideal for its survival and growth.

Why Choose Acanthastrea Lordhowensis for Your Reef Tank?

• Spectacular Coloration – Comes in a wide variety of bright, fluorescent hues.
• Hardy and Beginner-Friendly – Tolerant of minor water fluctuations, making it great for beginners.
• Moderate Growth Rate – Expands steadily without overtaking the tank.
• Low-Maintenance Feeding – Can thrive on photosynthesis but benefits from occasional direct feeding.

Optimal Water Parameters

Maintaining stable conditions is crucial for the health of Acanthastrea Lordhowensis:

Regular water testing and weekly water changes (10-20%) help maintain stability.

Tank Size and Setup

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons or larger for optimal growth and stability.
• Placement: Prefers the mid-to-lower regions of the tank with indirect lighting.
• Substrate Considerations: Can be placed on rockwork or the sandy bottom, but ensure adequate spacing from aggressive corals.

Lighting Requirements

Acanthastrea Lordhowensis thrives under low to moderate lighting conditions.

• PAR Range: 50-150 PAR
• Lighting Schedule: 8-10 hours per day, with a gradual ramp-up and ramp-down cycle to reduce stress.

Excessive light exposure can cause color fading or bleaching, so avoid placing it directly under strong LED fixtures.

Water Flow and Circulation

• Moderate water flow is ideal to provide gentle movement around the coral without directly blasting its fleshy polyps.
• Avoid strong, direct flow, as it can cause tissue damage and stress.
• Randomized flow patterns help replicate natural reef conditions and improve nutrient exchange.

Feeding and Nutrition

While Acanthastrea Lordhowensis gets nutrients from photosynthesis via its zooxanthellae, target feeding helps promote faster growth and vibrant colors.

• Preferred Foods: Mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, reef roids, phytoplankton, and amino acids.
• Feeding Frequency: 2-3 times per week enhances growth and coloration.
• Best Feeding Time: After lights dim when the coral extends its feeding tentacles.

Tank Mates and Compatibility

• Safe Companions: Clownfish, gobies, blennies, snails, shrimp, and other non-aggressive fish.
• Caution With: Other corals—Acan Lords have moderate aggression and can extend feeder tentacles to attack nearby corals.
• Avoid: Aggressive corals and fish that may nip at or irritate the coral.

Growth Rate and Propagation

• Moderate growth rate, with heads splitting and forming new polyps over time.
• Fragging Method: Use a bone cutter or coral saw to cut between polyps, ensuring healthy and fast healing.

Common Diseases and How to Prevent Them

• Brown Jelly Disease – A bacterial infection that can spread quickly; treat with iodine dips and improved water quality.
• Tissue Recession – Often caused by unstable water parameters or nearby aggressive corals.
• Algae Overgrowth – Can smother the coral if excess nutrients encourage unwanted growth.

Handling and Acclimation

• Drip acclimation is recommended for slowly adjusting the coral to its new environment.
• Avoid excessive handling, as Acan Lords have soft, fleshy polyps that can be easily damaged.

Maintenance and Cleaning

• Perform weekly water changes (10-20%) to maintain nutrient balance.
• Remove detritus buildup around the coral to prevent bacterial infections and algae growth.

Signs of Stress and How to Address Them

• Shrunken or closed polyps – May indicate poor water quality, excessive flow, or aggressive neighbors.
• Faded or bleached coloration – Reduce lighting intensity and increase feeding.
• Receding tissue – Check for signs of nearby coral aggression or unstable water parameters.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Bleaching – Often caused by too much light; relocate to a shaded area.
• Pest Infestation – Inspect regularly for nudibranchs, flatworms, or parasitic snails.
• Slow Growth – Increase target feeding and ensure stable alkalinity and calcium levels.

FAQs on Acanthastrea Lordhowensis Care

1. How fast does Acanthastrea Lordhowensis grow?
It grows at a moderate pace, with new polyps forming every few months under ideal conditions.

2. Can Acan Lords be kept in a nano tank?
Yes, but stable water parameters and enough space for growth are crucial.

3. Does Acan Lordhowensis require target feeding?
While it can survive on photosynthesis, direct feeding accelerates growth and enhances coloration.

4. How can I tell if my coral is unhealthy?
Signs include receding tissue, pale color, or polyps that fail to expand.

5. Can Acan Lords be placed near other corals?
They have moderate aggression, so they should be spaced to prevent feeder tentacle attacks.

6. What is the best way to frag Acanthastrea Lordhowensis?
Use a bone cutter or coral saw to make clean cuts, ensuring rapid healing.