024 WYSWIYG Blue Montipora Digitata

024 – Blue Montipora digitata
Scientific Name: Montipora digitata
Type: SPS Coral (Branching)

Overview

This WYSIWYG frag of Blue Montipora digitata features a multi-branch structure with dense polyp coverage and a soft powder-blue hue under white light, intensifying to a vivid electric blue under actinic spectrum. Known for its finger-like vertical growth and fuzzy appearance, this coral brings motion and dimension to the upper aquascape.

Digitata is one of the most forgiving SPS species, making it a popular choice for hobbyists transitioning from LPS to stony coral care. This frag is healthy, fully encrusted at the base, and already showing active tip extension.

Care Requirements

Lighting:
Moderate to high. PAR 200–350. Best color and polyp density are achieved under strong full-spectrum lighting with stable photoperiods.

Water Flow:
Moderate to high. Needs consistent, random flow to prevent detritus buildup between branches and promote healthy tissue development.

Placement:
Upper mid-level to top of the tank. Mount securely to rock with ample space above and around for vertical branching.

Feeding:
Primarily photosynthetic. Will respond positively to occasional broadcast feeding with amino acids or coral foods. Feeding is not required but may enhance growth.

Aggression Level:
Low. No sweepers or chemical defense, but can be overgrown by more aggressive neighbors. Best kept with other SPS or peaceful LPS.

Growth Rate:
Fast. Once acclimated, this species grows rapidly in vertical and lateral directions, developing into bushy, layered colonies.

Difficulty:
Moderate. Easier than most SPS corals but still requires stable alkalinity, calcium, and nutrient control for long-term success.

Additional Notes

This frag is a great candidate for SPS beginners and collectors alike. Its distinct shape, manageable care level, and vivid blue coloration make it an excellent feature coral for high-flow, high-light reef zones.

Over time, it will develop fingered branches that sway in flow and create a layered thicket effect, especially when given space and consistency. Best results occur in systems with minimal parameter swings and consistent export (skimming, carbon, etc.).

Mounted on a ceramic plug, fully healed, and ready to grow.