Hammer Garden Multi-Color Colony WYSIWYG

The Branching Hammer Coral, or Euphyllia paraancora, is a Large Polyp Stony Coral (LPS) loved for its hammer-shaped tentacles that gently sway in the current. Unlike its “Wall” counterpart, this coral grows in branching formations, making it easier to frag and maintain in reef aquariums. With vibrant colors like green, gold, or purple, it adds elegance and motion to any aquarium. Perfect for intermediate aquarists, it requires stable conditions to thrive.

Care Guide:

1. Tank Size and Setup:

• Minimum volume: 100 liters (26 gallons) for stable parameters.

• Lighting: Moderate to intense (recommended PAR: 80–150 PAR). High-quality LED or T5 lighting is ideal for enhancing its colors and supporting photosynthesis.

• Placement:

• Middle to lower areas of the tank, depending on light intensity.

• Leave at least 6 inches (15 cm) of space around the coral to prevent aggressive interactions with other corals.

2. Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 75–79°F (24–26°C).

• Salinity: 1.024–1.026 (specific gravity).

• pH: 7.8–8.4.

• Calcium: 400–450 ppm.

• Alkalinity (KH): 8–12 dKH.

• Magnesium: 1250–1450 ppm.

• Nitrates: Below 10 ppm (ideally 2–5 ppm).

• Phosphates: Below 0.05 ppm.

3. Flow:

• Moderate and indirect. Excessive flow can damage the tentacles or limit their extension.

4. Feeding:

• While it primarily relies on photosynthesis, supplemental feeding promotes faster growth and enhances coloration:

• Enriched brine shrimp, frozen mysis shrimp, or specialized LPS coral foods.

• Frequency: 2–3 times weekly, preferably at night when the tentacles are extended.

5. Compatibility and Tank Mates:

• Reef-safe: Yes, but its stinging tentacles can harm nearby corals.

• Ideal companions: Peaceful fish like gobies, clownfish (which may occasionally host in it), and dwarf angelfish.

• Avoid: Aggressive fish or invertebrates that may nip at its tissues, such as butterflyfish.

6. Maintenance and Growth:

• Gently clean the base of the branches to prevent debris buildup.

• Perform regular water changes (10–15% biweekly).

• Moderate to fast growth under optimal conditions.

7. Signs of Health:

• Fully extended tentacles swaying gently in the current.

• Vibrant colors with no signs of bleaching or tissue recession.

8. Special Precautions:

• Keep sufficient space from other corals to prevent aggressive interactions.

• Handle carefully to avoid damaging its delicate branches or tentacles.

• Maintain stable water parameters to avoid stress.