Acanthastrea lordhowensis RED + BLUE RINGS (11.08.2024) 4cm

Acanthastrea lordhowensis is a stony coral species belonging to the Lobophylliidae family. It is a colonial hard coral found on coral reefs in the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. Below, you'll find information about this species and its cultivation:

Description of Acanthastrea lordhowensis:

1. Physical Appearance: Acanthastrea lordhowensis is a hard coral with round or irregular colonies. Its corals form rolls or cushions, and individual polyps are surrounded by soft tissue, which gives it various patterns and colors. Different color variants can be found, including shades of red, pink, purple, blue, green, and brown.

2. Size: Colonies of Acanthastrea lordhowensis can range from a few centimeters to several tens of centimeters in diameter.

3. Environmental Requirements: This species of coral prefers moderate lighting conditions and moderate water flow. Water should be maintained at suitable parameters, such as temperature (around 25-28°C), pH (7.8-8.4), and salinity (around 1.025).

Cultivation of Acanthastrea lordhowensis:

Cultivating Acanthastrea lordhowensis in an aquarium is possible but requires some care. Here are some tips for cultivating this species:

1. Aquarium Conditions: Provide suitable environmental conditions, including stable water parameters and appropriate lighting. These corals do not favor too intense lighting, so moderate lighting is recommended.

2. Feeding: Acanthastrea lordhowensis is a photosynthetic coral that also benefits from supplementary feeding. You can feed it with plankton, phytoplankton, and other small organic particles. You can also use coral-feeding products available on the market.

3. Placement in the Aquarium: Place Acanthastrea lordhowensis colonies in the lower or middle parts of the aquarium, where they will have moderate water flow.

4. Specific Needs: Ensure that these corals do not come into direct contact with other corals, as they may compete for space.

5. Regular Maintenance: Regularly remove sediments and organic debris from the colony to maintain its health and avoid pollution issues.

6. Propagation: Acanthastrea lordhowensis can be propagated through colony division or by using clonal propagation techniques.

Cultivating Acanthastrea lordhowensis in an aquarium can be a rewarding experience but requires careful monitoring of water parameters and providing proper care. It's also essential to adhere to regulations related to the trade and cultivation of corals to support coral reef conservation and preserve their health.

Benefits of Buying Corals from Aquarium Cultivation:

Aquarium coral cultivation has become increasingly popular in the world of aquarium enthusiasts for several important reasons. Here are some advantages of purchasing corals from aquarium cultivation:

1. Protection of Natural Coral Reefs:

   • One of the primary benefits is that corals cultivated in aquariums are not harvested from wild coral reefs. This means that you are not contributing to the destruction of natural marine ecosystems.

2. Sustainable Aquaculture:

   • By buying corals from cultivation, you support sustainable aquaculture, which is more environmentally friendly than harvesting corals from wild reefs. This contributes to the preservation of marine biodiversity.

3. Greater Availability and Variety:

   • Aquarium cultivators often offer a wider range of coral species and varieties, allowing aquarium enthusiasts to create more diverse and interesting ecosystems in their tanks.

4. Healthier and Less Prone to Disease:

   • Corals from cultivation are typically healthier and less susceptible to diseases compared to those harvested from wild reefs. Aquarium cultivators often conduct regular testing and care for their corals, preventing diseases.

5. Proper Cultivation Conditions:

   • Coral cultivators control and maintain stable water conditions, ensuring optimal lighting, water flow, and nutrient levels. This promotes healthy growth and vibrant colors in corals.

6. Support for Enthusiasts:

   • Aquarium cultivators often offer support and advice, which can be particularly helpful for novice aquarists. You can gain valuable insights into coral care and cultivation from experienced cultivators.

7. Safe and Legal Alternative:

   • When you purchase corals from aquarium cultivation, you avoid potentially illegal trade in wild corals, which can lead to the degradation of natural coral reefs.

8. Supporting Scientific Innovation:

   • Aquarium cultivators often engage in research related to coral conservation and reef restoration. By buying from them, you also support these innovative scientific efforts.

Buying corals from aquarium cultivation is a sustainable and ethical way to own beautiful corals in your aquarium. It is also a means of engaging in the protection of marine nature and preserving wild coral reefs for future generations.