Plating Montipora

Environment

Mature reef aquarium of at least 150 liters, chemically stable. Intense LED or T5 lighting (PAR 150-300 μmol/m²/s). Medium to strong flow (20-40 times volume/hour), indirect to avoid plate detachment. Parameters: temperature 24-27 °C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 33-36 g/L, calcium 400-450 mg/L, magnesium 1250-1350 mg/L, KH 8-12 °dKH, nitrates <10 mg/L, phosphates <0.1 mg/L. Place on stable rock, mid-height or upper zone depending on strain.

Feeding

Primarily autotrophic thanks to its zooxanthellae (symbiotic algae). Benefits from fine plankton, amino acids or special coral food 2-3 times per week in the evening. Absorption of dissolved organic matter and capture of micro-particles by polyps.

Health & common diseases

Montipora capricornis are sensitive to bleaching (loss of zooxanthellae) in case of light, thermal or chemical stress, as well as bacterial infections causing tissue necrosis (RTN/STN). Symptoms include discoloration, receding living tissue and appearance of white areas on the skeleton. Prevention involves maintaining stable parameters (temperature, salinity, calcium, magnesium, alkalinity), gradual lighting during acclimation, good water circulation and absence of excessive phosphates and nitrates.

Tips & tankmates

Excellent species for starting with SPS. Respect gradual light acclimation (increase intensity over 2-3 weeks). Fragments easily: can overgrow the aquarium if not pruned. Watch for contact with other corals (possible toxicity). Monitor attacks by specific nudibranchs (Montipora-eating nudibranchs) and flatworms. Stable in mature tanks, sensitive to rapid alkalinity fluctuations. Compatible with peaceful reef fish and invertebrates.

Sources

• Reef Builders - Montipora Care Guide
• Advanced Aquarist - SPS Coral Husbandry
• Coralpedia