Hydnophora sp.

HYDNOPHORA

Hydnophora colonies are a mixed bag of reviews when it comes to how hard their care is. They do require a stable tank, high light levels and strong randomized flow. But, are typically regarded to be one of the easier SPS corals to care for especially next to Acropora. Successful Hydnophora husbandry is highly rewarding as these corals can be known to be a bit finicky.

WATER CHEMISTRY

Hydnophora should be kept in a mature reef aquarium that has stable water parameters. While we have our preferred parameters for Alkalinity, Phosphate, and Nitrate, Hydnophora  will do far better in your system if you just focus on keeping the water chemistry stable. If your Alkalinity, Phosphate, or Nitrate is out of line, our recommendation is to get it back to your target levels as slowly as possible.

The parameters we aim for are:

We maintain these levels by use of dosing pumps, with Brightwell Aquatics Reef Code A and Reef Code B.

It's important to understand that these are the levels that we aim for in our SPS system. However, that doesn't mean they are the right levels for your system. All aquariums are different and your system may naturally fall on a different balance. You're better off working with the balance your system tends towards than trying to force the same levels that we run.

FLOW

In terms of flow, Hydnophora monticules(the hill-like protrusions on the top of its surface) should constantly be getting blown around in various directions. This is a good indication that you have the coral in strong randomized flow. Flow is extremely important for Hydnophora as the monticules are a large part in the photosynthesizing process which is what these corals depend on for the majority of their diet.

LIGHTING

Hydnophora are among the light-loving corals in our tanks. We always recommend placing them in an intermediate to high placement on the rockwork where they will receive plenty of light. 

Too little light can cause Hydnophora to turn yellow, if this happens raise the coral in your tank or increase your light intensity. This is a slow process, however, assuming it has good flow and your water chemistry is stable it will regain its colour.