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Saltwater Hammer corals, also known as Euphyllia ancora, are a type of large polyp stony (LPS) coral that is popular in the aquarium hobby due to its unique hammer- or anchor-like shape. Here are some general guidelines for their care:
Aquarium Conditions:
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Water Quality: Like all corals, Hammer corals require clean, well-filtered water. Maintain specific gravity between 1.023 and 1.025, pH between 8.1 and 8.4, and temperatures between 72-78°F (22-26°C).
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Lighting: Hammer corals require moderate to high lighting. They can adapt to different light intensities, but sudden changes can harm them. If you use high-intensity lighting, ensure the coral is acclimated gradually to prevent light shock.
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Water Flow: They also prefer moderate water flow. Too strong flow can damage the polyps, while too weak flow can lead to sediment buildup and poor health.
Placement:
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Space: Give your Hammer coral plenty of space. Its stinging tentacles can reach out and sting nearby corals, which can lead to damage or even the death of other corals. A safe distance would be about 6 inches from other corals.
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Height: They can be placed either on the sand bed or in the mid to upper sections of the tank depending on the lighting. If the light intensity is high, it might be better to place them lower.
Feeding:
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Hammer corals have zooxanthellae, a type of algae that live inside their tissues, which provides most of their nutritional needs through photosynthesis. However, they will also benefit from supplemental feedings.
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You can feed them a variety of marine foods like brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, or specially formulated coral foods. It is recommended to feed them at least once a week, depending on your tank conditions and the size of the coral.
Remember, each individual coral can have slightly different needs, and the above should be adjusted based on your observations and specific tank conditions. Always observe your corals closely, particularly after changes in tank conditions or additions of new specimens. If you notice changes in color, shape, or behavior, it's a sign that your coral may be stressed and you may need to adjust your care practices.