Acropora Millepora are a type of acropora that generally grow in a clustered, rather than branching form. Provided there is sufficient flow they will display their large, hairy polyps while feeding. When their polyps are retracted they have a somewhat scaly appearance that differs from other common types of acropora such as Acropora Tenuis. They are available in a wide variety of colour morphs such as pink, blue, green and orange/yellow. One of the most colourful varieties is the Sunset Millepora, which is quite commonly available. Acropora Millepora is believed by some to be somewhat easier to keep than other species of acropora.
This particular species of acropora is native to the western Indo-Pacific region where it is found from the east coast of Africa to Australia. It is found on shallow reefs in areas with high levels of light and water flow. Many different colour morphs are also available as captive grown specimens. In a home aquarium they should be placed on the rockwork in the upper third of the tank where they will receive high levels of light and flow. They will encrust the rockwork around their base and also grow new columns. As with all species of acropora, it is important that tank parameters are kept stable with pristine water quality.
Like all types of acropora, Acropora Millepora love high levels of both light and flow. They should, however, be slowly acclimatized to the aquarium lighting. A coral’s colour is a good indicator of whether or not they are receiving enough light. A coral that is not receiving enough light will often begin to brown, whereas one that is receiving too much light may begin to turn white. Flow should be sufficient to encourage the polyps to extend and random flow is preferred.
Acropora Millepora are photosynthetic and are able to use aquarium lighting to meet their energy needs. However, they can be fed if desired. A coral food such as Vitalis SPS Food is a good choice for all SPS corals. Be careful not to overfeed, as this will negatively impact water quality.
This coral is very easy to frag, simply use coral cutters to cut a piece from a colony and glue to frag to a frag plug.
