Montipora

Montipora corals are generally considered the gateway into the more challenging world of Small Polyp Stony (SPS) corals. Available in incredibly diverse growth forms—from plating (capricornis) to encrusting and branching varieties—they offer fantastic textures for the upper levels of a reef tank. While easier to care for than an Acropora, they still require mature, incredibly stable water chemistry with pristine alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium levels. They thrive under high-intensity lighting and strong, alternating water flow to prevent detritus from settling on their delicate surfaces. They are highly photosynthetic but benefit greatly from amino-acid supplements.