Miyagi Tort Acropora

The Miyagi Tort Coral is an exquisite SPS (small-polyp stony) coral prized by reef hobbyists for its striking, deep purple branches with vibrant neon green polyps. Under actinic lighting, its fluorescent colors intensify, creating a stunning display. Known for its branching, upward growth pattern, the Miyagi Tort adds height and color to SPS-dominated reef tanks. Although it requires careful attention to water quality, it’s considered one of the hardier Acropora species.

Care Guide:

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons, but thrives best in 50+ gallons for stability.
• Temperament: Peaceful, but can shade or be shaded by nearby corals due to branching growth.
• Lighting: High (PAR 250-400); prefers intense, full-spectrum LED lighting with strong actinic supplementation.
• Flow: High – requires strong, turbulent flow to prevent detritus buildup, promote polyp extension, and stimulate healthy growth.
• Placement:
  • Best placed mid to upper rockwork, receiving strong light and flow.
  • Provide sufficient space to grow upward and outward.
• Feeding:
  • Primarily relies on photosynthesis via zooxanthellae.
  • Benefits from broadcast feeding with:
    • Reef amino acids
    • Zooplankton
    • Powdered coral foods (e.g., Reef Roids)
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 75-78°F (24-26°C)
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Salinity: 1.025-1.026
  • Alkalinity: 8-10 dKH (stability is crucial)
  • Calcium: 420-450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1300-1400 ppm
  • Nitrate & Phosphate: Very low (NO₃: 1-5 ppm, PO₄: 0.02-0.05 ppm)

Compatibility:

• Peaceful, suitable in SPS-dominated tanks.
• Best kept with other Acropora or SPS corals; avoid placement near aggressive LPS with sweeper tentacles.
• Ensure it is not shaded by faster-growing corals.

Special Considerations:

• Coloration Enhancement: Strong blue-heavy lighting and excellent water quality bring out its rich purple and green colors.
• Fragging: Easily fragged by clipping branches; it heals and encrusts rapidly under ideal conditions.
• Sensitivity: Requires consistent water parameters and high flow; fluctuations can cause stress or bleaching.

Summary:

The Miyagi Tort Coral is a beautiful, hardy (for Acropora), and visually striking SPS coral, perfect for adding height, color, and structure to a reef tank. With excellent water quality, high lighting, and strong flow, Miyagi Tort will thrive and become a prized centerpiece in any SPS-dominated reef aquarium.