Frag - Micromussa lordhowensis

Acan Lord Coral (Micromussa lordhowensis) Common Names: Acan Lord, Acan Coral, Lordhowensis Coral Care Level: Moderate Temperament: Peaceful Colour Form: Red, Orange, Green, Blue, Purple, Multicoloured Variants Diet: Photosynthetic and Carnivorous Reef Compatible: Yes Water Conditions: 24-27°C, dKH 6-10, pH 7.8-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025 Max Size: Colony growth depends on care; individual polyps can reach up to 2-3 cm in diameter. Family: Lobophylliidae Overview The Acan Lord Coral (Micromussa lordhowensis) is a highly sought-after large polyp stony (LPS) coral, beloved for its brilliant, vibrant colours and striking patterns. This coral, originating from the Indo-Pacific, including Australia, is a favourite among aquarists due to its hardiness, beauty, and relatively manageable care requirements. Its fleshy polyps and colourful appearance make it a stunning addition to reef aquariums of all sizes. Behaviour and Habitat Acan Lords are peaceful corals that do not possess long sweeper tentacles, making them an ideal choice for mixed reef tanks. Their fleshy polyps inflate during the day, displaying their vibrant colours and texture. In the wild, they are typically found in shaded areas or at moderate depths on coral reefs, where water movement is gentle. Tank Requirements Lighting: Low to moderate. Excessively bright lighting may cause bleaching or retraction of polyps. Water Flow: Low to moderate, as strong currents can damage their delicate tissues. Placement: Ideal for the lower to middle regions of the tank, on flat rock or sand. Avoid placement in direct, strong water flow or intense lighting. Diet Acan Lords host symbiotic zooxanthellae that provide energy through photosynthesis, but they benefit from direct feeding to promote growth and vibrant colouration. Food Types: Mysis shrimp Brine shrimp Powdered or liquid coral foods Finely chopped seafood Feeding Frequency: Feed 1-2 times per week. Target feeding is recommended for optimal growth and health. Reef Compatibility Acan Lords are entirely reef-safe and do not harm other corals or invertebrates. However, ensure sufficient spacing between them and other corals to prevent overcrowding and to allow for proper growth. Compatibility These corals are compatible with peaceful tank mates, including: Gobies Blennies Clownfish Reef-safe invertebrates like snails and cleaner shrimp Avoid housing them with aggressive fish or coral-picking species, such as butterflyfish or large angelfish. Care Tips Regularly monitor calcium (380-450 ppm), magnesium (1250-1350 ppm), and alkalinity (6-10 dKH) to support skeleton formation. Provide low to moderate lighting to prevent bleaching. Maintain stable water parameters and good tank hygiene to prevent stress and disease. Target feed to enhance growth and encourage vibrant colouration. Final Thoughts The Acan Lord Coral is a visually stunning and relatively hardy coral that adds dramatic colour and texture to any reef aquarium. Its peaceful nature and ease of care make it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. With proper feeding, lighting, and placement, this coral will thrive, serving as a captivating centrepiece in your reef environment. If you're looking to enhance your tank further, browse our collection of LPS Corals, SPS Corals, or Soft Corals.