WYSIWYG
The saltwater hammer coral (Euphyllia ancora), also known as the anchor coral, is a popular choice for marine aquarists due to its vibrant colors and unique tentacle movement that mimics a hammer in motion. Despite its attractive appearance, caring for hammer coral requires specific conditions and parameters to ensure its health and survival. Here's a guide to help you take care of your hammer coral:
Lighting
Hammer coral prefers moderate light levels. Too much light can lead to bleaching and ultimately kill your coral. Too little light, however, can cause the coral to not have enough energy to grow. A good range of lighting for hammer coral is between 50-150 PAR. If you notice that your coral is not expanding or its color is fading, you may need to adjust your lighting.
Water Flow
Hammer corals prefer moderate water flow. High water flow can damage the delicate tissues of the coral, while too little flow can lead to insufficient food and nutrient delivery. Adjust your powerheads or wave makers to ensure a moderate, indirect flow towards your hammer coral.
Water Quality
Like most corals, hammer corals prefer specific water parameters. Here are the ideal parameters:
- Salinity: 1.023 to 1.025 Specific Gravity
- pH: 8.1 to 8.4
- Temperature: 75°F to 79°F (24°C to 26°C)
- Ammonia/Nitrite: 0
- Nitrate: <10 ppm
- Phosphate: <0.03 ppm
- Alkalinity: 8 to 12 dKH
- Calcium: 380 to 450 ppm
- Magnesium: 1250 to 1350 ppm
Regular water testing is essential to maintain these parameters. Also, regular water changes are needed to remove harmful chemicals and replenish essential minerals.
Feeding
Hammer corals have a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae, a type of algae that lives inside their tissue and provides them with nutrients. However, they also benefit from supplemental feedings. You can feed your hammer coral with marine-based meaty foods like mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or specially designed coral foods. Aim to feed your hammer coral 1-2 times per week.
Placement
Hammer corals have sweeper tentacles that they use to keep other corals at a distance. Ensure there is enough space around your hammer coral (about 6 inches) to prevent it from stinging and damaging neighboring corals. Also, they should be placed on a sturdy surface as they can become quite heavy when they grow.
Propagation
Propagation or fragging is the process of creating new colonies from a single coral. It is a rather advanced process and can be quite risky, especially with hammer corals as they can easily get stressed and die. If you want to attempt this, it's recommended to have a separate tank and equipment. Cut a healthy branch from the main body with a clean, sharp tool and place it in a separate container with good water conditions.
Remember that each coral has its own unique needs and can react differently to changes in the environment. Regular observation and adjustments are key to keeping your hammer coral healthy and thriving.