Moranguita Shortcake Acropora (Acropora microclados – Premium Australian Colony)
Quick Stats
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Care Level: Advanced
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Temperament: Peaceful
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Colour Form: Bright Strawberry Red with Creamy Yellow-Gold Branches
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Water Conditions: 24-26°C, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.025-1.026
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Family: Acroporidae
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Lighting: High (LED, T5, or Metal Halide)
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Supplements: Calcium, Alkalinity, Magnesium, Amino Acids, Trace Elements
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Water Flow: Strong and Randomized
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Placement: High in the Tank
Overview
The Moranguita Shortcake Acropora is an exquisite and highly desirable variety of Acropora microclados, featuring strawberry-red polyps atop creamy yellow-gold branches. Named after the Spanish word for "little strawberry," this Australian SPS coral boasts a stunning contrast of warm and vibrant hues, making it a true centerpiece in high-end reef tanks.
Under optimal lighting and water conditions, the Moranguita Shortcake develops an intricate branching structure, offering depth and dimension to an aquascape while providing shelter for reef fish and invertebrates. This coral is ideal for experienced reefers looking to add a high-end SPS showpiece to their collection.
Care & Feeding
The Moranguita Shortcake Acropora demands intense lighting, such as LEDs, T5, or metal halides, to maintain its brilliant coloration. It thrives with strong, randomized water flow, which prevents detritus buildup and encourages healthy polyp extension.
While primarily photosynthetic, this coral benefits from target feedings of amino acids, phytoplankton, and specialized SPS coral foods, helping maintain optimal health and vibrancy. Stability in calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels is critical to avoid stress, which can lead to fading or tissue loss.
Optimal Parameters
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Alkalinity (dKH): 8-10
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Calcium (Ca): 420-460 ppm
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Magnesium (Mg): 1300-1400 ppm
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Nitrate (NO3): 2-10 ppm
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Phosphate (PO4): 0.02-0.05 ppm
Placement
To maximize its growth and coloration, the Moranguita Shortcake should be placed in the upper section of the reef tank, where it receives direct, strong lighting. It has a peaceful nature, allowing it to be positioned near other SPS corals, but it requires space to grow into its classic shortcake branching form.
🌿✨ The Moranguita Shortcake Acropora is a must-have for serious SPS collectors, offering an unbeatable combination of striking coloration, dynamic growth, and rare beauty!