Ora Redplanet growth shots. Proof of life for 2013

Very odd indeed. It is however starting to sprout on another side and the original frag is beginning to grow upwards. This picture is from today.

 

Photobucket has been acting up. I was unable to post the progression pictures. The frag is now 6 months old. Parameters:SG 1.026, temp 82 F, Ca 450, Alk 12, Mag 1400. Dosing Parts A/B, magnesium and water changes 10% monthly.

 

I know I'm a newbie to coral Corailline but these are looking awesome to me! kudos and K+ to you!

GreyBeard

 

Thank for viewing GreyBeard,

ORA Red Planet is a fast growing acropora and it took me some time to figure out the best parameters to promote growth. I am now happy with the results.

 

and obviously those parameters are the ones you listed above right? Now if I knew what an acropora was.... *laughing at myself* so many basics to learn still before can add corals at the store. Good thing I'm not in a hurry!

GreyBeard of the brain cramp clan
lol

 

Yes those are the current parameters of the tank. I have adjusted the Alk from 9 to 12 and the mg from 1300 to 1400. Some would consider the alk high but this is what is working for me. At times the mg goes to 1450 as well. Since the tank is so small I add very little buffer to the system every 4 to 5 days. And I forgot the pH is 8.4.

 

well you sure seem to have it 'dialed in' for your tank! very nice!
acros are sps? is that right?

 

Yes small polyp stoney corals. Rather than the LPS, large polyp corals such as Duncans, Euphyllias, Brains.... to name a few. Both are stoney corals however.

 

Thanks! maybe I am starting to absorb a little after all! LOL
How much harder are SPS than softies to care for? You seem to be doing a nice job with yours IMHO so straight scoop... just how much harder are the sps's in general?

GreyBeard

 

Much harder IMO. Acropora need an established system that is exhibiting good coralline algae growth. People do keep sps successfully in younger tanks but I do not think you see the same growth and coloration. Add to that the need for intense lighting. With LPS and soft corals you do not always need some of the more elaborate equipment such as calcium reactors, quality skimmers. There are some easier sps such as montipora and birdsnest. This of course is only my personal experience. I have kept sps in much younger tanks but the growth and coloration were not as good. I think you will find that everyone has their own recipies regarding parameters, dosing and equipment.