Blue Tip Green Hammer Frag - 3 Head

Type: Branching hammer
Name: Euphyllia Paraancora
Size: 
Fixing: Small Frag Plug 20mm Diameter 

Hammer Coral Care Guide

Scientific Name: Euphyllia ancora
Common Names: Hammer Coral, Anchor Coral

Hammer Corals are a striking addition to any reef aquarium. Their large, flowing tentacles and vibrant colours make them a popular choice among reef enthusiasts. Below is everything you need to know to care for your Hammer Coral.

Placement in Aquarium

• Lighting Requirements: Moderate to high. Position your Hammer Coral in an area with medium light intensity, or provide supplemental light if placed in a dimmer area. LED lights with a spectrum suitable for coral growth are ideal.
• Water Flow: Moderate. Avoid placing it in areas with strong, direct currents, as this can damage the coral's delicate tissue. Gentle, random flow is best to mimic natural reef conditions.
• Placement Recommendations: Allow at least 6 inches of space around the coral to prevent its sweeper tentacles from stinging neighbouring corals.

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Salinity: 1.023–1.026 specific gravity
• Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
• Calcium: 400–450 ppm
• Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm

Maintaining stable water parameters is crucial for the health of your Hammer Coral. Test water regularly and make adjustments as needed.

Feeding

Hammer Corals are photosynthetic but benefit from supplemental feeding.

• Diet: Offer foods like plankton, mysis shrimp, or specialized coral foods 1–2 times per week. Feed when the tentacles are extended to maximize nutrient absorption.
• Feeding Tip: Target feeding with a turkey baster or coral feeder can help deliver nutrients directly to the coral.

Growth & Propagation

• Hammer Corals grow through budding, producing new polyps over time.
• Propagation can be done by carefully cutting the skeleton with a coral saw. Ensure clean cuts to avoid infections.

Common Challenges

• Pests: Inspect for hitchhikers like flatworms, nudibranchs, or parasitic snails before introducing the coral to your tank.
• Brown Jelly Disease: This bacterial infection can quickly harm your coral. Remove infected areas promptly and maintain excellent water quality.
• Stress Indicators: Receding tissue, deflated polyps, or colour fading are signs of poor health. Check lighting, flow, and water parameters if these occur.

Compatibility

• Hammer Corals can coexist with many reef-safe fish and invertebrates but may become aggressive toward neighbouring corals due to their long sweeper tentacles.
• Ideal tankmates include clownfish, gobies, and cleaner shrimp.

With proper care, Hammer Corals can thrive and become a focal point in your reef aquarium. They reward aquarists with their dynamic appearance and gentle sway, bringing life and movement to any underwater environment.