Neon Green Fat Tentacle Hammer

The Neon Green Fat Tentacle Hammer Coral is a highly sought-after LPS (large-polyp stony) coral, distinguished by its thicker, fleshy tentacles and intense neon green coloration. Unlike standard hammer corals, this variety has chunkier, more robust tentacles that extend gracefully under proper flow, creating a mesmerizing movement in reef tanks. Native to the Indo-Pacific, this hammer coral thrives in stable reef environments and is ideal for reef keepers looking to add bold color and dynamic motion to their tank.

Care Guide:

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons, but thrives in 50+ gallons for long-term health and stability.
• Temperament: Aggressive – extends long sweeper tentacles at night, so keep at least 3-5 inches of space from neighboring corals.
• Lighting: Moderate (PAR 100-200); too much light can cause bleaching, while too little can reduce growth and vibrancy.
• Flow: Moderate – prefers gentle, indirect flow to allow natural swaying motion without damaging its fleshy polyps.
• Placement:
  • Best placed on lower to mid rockwork or the sandbed, ensuring room for expansion.
  • Avoid high-flow areas, as excessive water movement can prevent proper polyp extension.
• Feeding:
  • Carnivorous – benefits from target feeding 1-2 times per week with:
    • Mysis shrimp
    • Brine shrimp
    • Reef-specific coral foods (powdered or liquid)
  • Gains additional nutrients from photosynthesis via its zooxanthellae.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 74-78°F (23-26°C)
  • pH: 8.1-8.4
  • Salinity: 1.024-1.026
  • Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH
  • Calcium: 400-450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm
  • Nitrate & Phosphate: Low but detectable (NO₃: 5-10 ppm, PO₄: 0.03-0.07 ppm) – excess nutrients can cause algae overgrowth, while too little may slow growth.

Compatibility:

• Aggressive, best kept away from delicate or slow-growing corals.
• Safe with other Euphyllia corals (Hammers, Torches, Frogspawns), but ensure enough space to prevent tentacle warfare.
• Avoid placement near highly aggressive corals like Galaxea, Hydnophora, or Acropora colonies.

Special Considerations:

• Fragging: Can be fragged by cutting between its branching heads, making propagation relatively easy.
• Flowing Movement: The thicker tentacles provide a unique, fluid motion, adding dynamic beauty to reef tanks.
• Color Enhancement: Actinic blue lighting (450-470nm spectrum) enhances the bright neon green fluorescence for a stunning glow.

Summary:

The Neon Green Fat Tentacle Hammer Coral is a bold, vibrant, and moderately aggressive LPS coral, perfect for adding movement and intense coloration to reef aquariums. With stable water conditions, moderate lighting, and careful placement, it will thrive and become a showpiece coral in any reef tank.