Purple Montipora

The Purple Montipora is a captivating SPS (small-polyp stony) coral known for its intense purple coloration, which deepens under proper lighting. Available in both plating (Montipora capricornis) and branching (Montipora digitata) varieties, this coral offers versatility in aquascaping. Its vivid purple hue contrasts beautifully with other colors in reef tanks, and it's hardy, fast-growing, and beginner-friendly, making it a popular choice among SPS enthusiasts.

Care Guide:

• Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons, but thrives in 30+ gallons for stability and optimal growth.
• Temperament: Peaceful, but its rapid growth can shade or encroach on nearby corals.
• Lighting: Moderate to high (PAR 200-350); higher lighting encourages deeper, richer purple coloration.
• Flow: Moderate to high – strong, indirect flow promotes healthy growth and prevents detritus buildup.
• Placement:
  • Plating type: Best placed on mid to upper rockwork, allowing space to grow outward.
  • Branching type: Ideal in mid to upper regions, providing room for branching growth upward and outward.
• Feeding:
  • Primarily relies on photosynthesis via zooxanthellae.
  • Benefits from occasional broadcast feeding with:
    • Reef amino acids
    • Phytoplankton
    • 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: 8-12 dKH (stability crucial)
  • Calcium: 420-450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1300-1350 ppm
  • Nitrate & Phosphate: Low but detectable (NO₃: 2-5 ppm, PO₄: 0.02-0.05 ppm)

Compatibility:

• Very peaceful, best kept in SPS-dominated tanks.
• Compatible with other SPS corals like Birdsnests, Acropora, or other Montipora.
• Avoid placement near aggressive corals with long sweeper tentacles (e.g., Euphyllia, Galaxea).

Special Considerations:

• Fragging: Easily propagated by breaking off branches or plates; heals quickly.
• Coloration Enhancement: Rich purple color intensifies under blue-dominant LED lighting.
• Growth Management: Rapid growth; may require periodic trimming to prevent shading or overgrowth.

Summary:

The Purple Montipora is a hardy, fast-growing, and visually striking SPS coral, ideal for adding deep purple tones and unique structure to reef tanks. With stable water conditions, moderate-to-high lighting, and strong flow, it thrives easily, making it a perfect coral for both beginners and seasoned reef hobbyists alike.