Wall Hammer Colony WYSIWYG

General Description:

The Wall Hammer, or Wall Hammer Coral, is a spectacular Large Polyp Stony Coral (LPS) that captures attention with its flowing appearance and tentacle-like polyps. This coral is perfect for adding movement and a unique touch to your reef aquarium. It is ideal for intermediate to advanced aquarists due to its specific care requirements and sensitivity to environmental changes.

Care Guide:

1. Tank Size and Setup:

• Minimum volume: 50 liters (13 gallons) to ensure parameter stability.

• Lighting: Moderate to intense (recommended PAR: 80–200 PAR). High-quality LED or T5 lighting is ideal.

• Placement:

• Place in the middle or lower areas of the aquarium.

• Ensure at least 10 cm (4 inches) of space between the Wall Hammer and other corals to prevent aggressive interactions.

2. Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 24–26°C (75–79°F).

• 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 0.08 ppm.

3. Flow:

• Moderate and indirect. Excessive flow can cause polyp retraction or tissue damage. Use an adjustable flow pump to tailor the current around the coral.

4. Feeding:

• While it derives most of its energy from its zooxanthellae through photosynthesis, the Wall Hammer Colony benefits from supplemental feeding:

• Enriched brine shrimp or frozen mysis shrimp.

• Powdered or liquid LPS coral food.

• Feeding frequency: Twice a week.

5. Compatibility and Tank Mates:

• Reef-safe: Yes, but take care with its moderate aggression. Its tentacles can reach and sting nearby corals.

• Ideal fish: Peaceful reef species such as gobies, clownfish, and dwarf angelfish.

• Avoid: Fish or invertebrates that nip at soft tissues, such as butterflyfish or aggressive crabs.

6. Maintenance and Growth:

• Moderate growth under optimal conditions.

• Regularly clean the polyps and monitor for debris or algae buildup.

• Maintain high water quality with regular water changes (10–15% every two weeks).

7. Signs of Good Health:

• Fully extended and vibrant polyps.

• Smooth, flowing tentacle movement in response to the water current.

8. Special Precautions:

• Spacing: Do not place this coral too close to others to prevent chemical warfare.

• Handling: Avoid touching its soft tissues with bare hands, as this can cause infections.

• Stability: The Wall Hammer is sensitive to sudden parameter changes. Regular monitoring is crucial.

By following these care guidelines, the Wall Hammer Colony will thrive in your reef aquarium, bringing a dynamic and captivating presence to your underwater ecosystem.