WWC Green Hirsuta Montipora

Quick Stats

• Care Level: Moderate
• Coral Type: SPS (Small Polyp Stony)
• Lighting Requirement: Medium (150-250 PAR)
• Flow: Medium/High
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Placement: Rockwork
• Approximate Purchase Size: 1"

Overview

WWC Green Hirsuta Montipora is a very unique coral as it forms branches that start out thin and then become flat mini plates as it grows more mature. The Green Hirsuta Montipora has a vibrant green base with green polyps. This is a super unique coral and a must have for every coral lover's collection. Known for its moderate care needs, this coral is an excellent choice for reef keepers looking to venture into SPS corals, as Montipora species are often considered some of the more forgiving SPS options for beginners.

Note: This is not a WYSIWYG listing. Photo is a representation of the shape, size, and color of the coral you will receive.

Water Parameters

This coral thrives in stable water conditions with regular water changes. Corals with a hard skeleton, like this one, will consume calcium and alkalinity as they grow, often requiring additional supplementation. Routine water testing helps ensure these needs are consistently met.

• Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.024-1.026
• Temperature: 75-78 Degrees F
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Alkalinity: 8-9dKH
• Calcium: 380-450ppm
• Magnesium: 1300-1450ppm
• Nitrate (NO3): 10-30ppm
• Phosphate: 0.01-0.1ppm
• Nitrite (NO2): Undetectable
• Ammonia (NH3): Undetectable

Lighting Requirements

Green Hirsuta Montipora does best in medium light, around 150-250 PAR. Although adaptable to other light conditions, gradual acclimation to these light levels is recommended to avoid stress. For those with mixed reef tanks, a PAR meter is invaluable for fine-tuning light levels across different corals, helping ensure each coral gets the right intensity for its needs. This careful setup supports the coral’s vibrant color and long-term health.

Ideal Tank Placement

Place Montipora directly on rockwork where it will be exposed to the right amount of light and flow.

Water Flow Requirements

Moderate to strong water flow is ideal. The short polyps can withstand high flow that is typical of SPS reef tanks. This is especially important as the coral gets larger and flow becomes more difficult to get between it's branching structure.

Aggressiveness and Compatibility

Like other branching corals, it's important to give Green Hirsuta Montipora room to grow out and upward. Because its branches can shade corals below, consider its growth pattern before placing corals around it.

Feeding and Nutrition

Primarily photosynthetic, this Montipora can thrive on light alone, though occasional feedings with coral foods such as Reef Chili and Amino Acids like CoralAmino can enhance its growth and coloration.

Growth Rate and Pattern

This Montipora has a moderate to fast growth rate, forming branches that start out thin and then become flat mini plates as it grows. If you find you've given it too little space as it grows out, the branches can be easily fragged by simply breaking off or trimming branches with a coral bone cutter.

Acclimation Process

Acclimation is essential for corals to adjust to their new environment. For a full step-by-step process, refer to our Coral Acclimation Guide.