008 WYSWIYG Kung Pao Montipora

008 – Kung Pao Montipora
Scientific Name: Montipora spp.
Type: SPS Coral (Encrusting)

Overview

This WYSIWYG frag of Kung Pao Montipora displays golden-orange tissue with scattered neon green eyes and distinct surface texture across its ridged encrusting base. The coral is fully healed, with vibrant contrast between the base and polyp coloration under blue-spectrum lighting. As it grows, this variety forms a contoured, spreading mat that becomes increasingly intense with depth and light exposure.

Kung Pao Montipora is a prized variant among collectors for its vibrant palette and ability to hold color in both moderate and high-energy reef systems.

Care Requirements

Lighting:
Moderate to high (PAR 200–350). Color saturation improves under strong full-spectrum LED or T5 hybrid setups with heavy blues.

Water Flow:
Moderate to high. Strong, random flow promotes tight tissue structure, polyp extension, and prevents detritus from accumulating on the surface.

Placement:
Mid to upper reef. Ideal for flat rock faces, vertical structures, or shelf edges. Requires room to encrust—avoid aggressive coral neighbors.

Feeding:
Primarily photosynthetic. Benefits from amino acids and occasional powdered coral food dosing. Feeding may improve coloration and surface development.

Aggression Level:
Low. Will peacefully encrust if space is available, but avoid close placement next to high-aggression LPS or chemically active soft corals.

Growth Rate:
Moderate. Will steadily spread across hard surfaces and intensify in color with consistent care and light exposure.

Difficulty:
Moderate. Recommended for reefers maintaining stable alkalinity and nutrient levels—Kung Pao is hardy but color-sensitive to parameter swings.