003 WYSWIYG Acropora florida

002 – Acropora florida
Scientific Name: Acropora florida
Type: SPS Coral

Overview

Acropora florida is a highly sought-after branching Acropora species known for its elegant structure and coloration. Its clustered growth form develops into compact bushes with tightly packed corallites and vibrant tips, often showing shades of blue, lavender, or green depending on lighting and flow. This species is an ideal candidate for high-energy reef zones and makes a dramatic visual impact when placed correctly.

Like most Acropora species, A. florida thrives under stable reef parameters, strong flow, and high-intensity lighting. It is best suited for intermediate to advanced aquarists who can maintain consistent calcium, alkalinity, and nutrient levels.

Care Requirements

Lighting:
High. PAR between 250–400 is recommended. Full-spectrum reef lighting with strong blue and violet channels enhances coloration and polyp extension.

Water Flow:
High, ideally turbulent rather than direct. Constant water motion helps deliver nutrients, removes waste, and prevents tissue recession.

Placement:
Top third of the rock structure or frag rack, with plenty of space to avoid shading. Secure the frag with glue or epoxy to encourage base encrustation before vertical growth begins.

Feeding:
Photosynthetic via symbiotic zooxanthellae. Supplemental feeding with amino acids or coral foods such as reef roids may encourage color enhancement and polyp extension but is not required.

Aggression Level:
Peaceful. However, due to their sensitivity, Acropora colonies should not be placed near aggressive LPS or soft corals capable of allelopathic chemical release.

Growth Rate:
Moderate under optimal conditions. Encrustation usually precedes branching. Expect growth to accelerate once parameters are locked in.

Difficulty:
Moderate to advanced. Acropora florida demands stable conditions and should only be added to well-established reef systems.

Additional Notes

Like all Acropora, this species is sensitive to parameter swings—especially in alkalinity, phosphate, and temperature. Regular testing and minor weekly corrections help prevent STN (slow tissue necrosis) and RTN (rapid tissue necrosis). Once established, A. florida is a rewarding coral that offers unique shape, fast branching, and layered color depth under quality lighting.

Strong skimming, low nutrients, consistent trace elements, and calcium/alkalinity dosing are essential for long-term success. Avoid placing under shading colonies or near fast-growing soft corals with chemical defenses.

Propagation should only be done on healthy, stable colonies and typically yields high success when handled carefully.