Taking care of Small Polyp Stony (SPS) corals in a reef aquarium requires diligent attention to several key factors to replicate their natural, pristine environment.
Essential SPS Care Practices
Successfully maintaining SPS corals hinges on providing optimal water conditions, lighting, flow, and nutrient levels. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Maintaining High Water Flow
SPS corals thrive in environments with strong and turbulent water flow. This flow provides several benefits:
- Nutrient Delivery: Brings essential nutrients and trace elements to the coral.
- Waste Removal: Removes waste products and detritus, preventing buildup and potential problems.
- Oxygenation: Increases oxygen levels around the coral.
Aim for a flow rate in your aquarium that is at least 30-50 times the tank volume per hour. Consider using multiple powerheads strategically placed to create varied flow patterns, avoiding dead spots.
2. Ensuring Pristine Water Quality
Maintaining exceptionally clean water is crucial for SPS health. Key parameters to monitor and control include:
- Salinity: Maintain a stable salinity of 1.025-1.026 specific gravity.
- Temperature: Keep the temperature stable, typically between 76-80°F (24-27°C).
- Alkalinity: Maintain a stable alkalinity between 8-11 dKH.
- Calcium: Keep calcium levels between 400-450 ppm.
- Magnesium: Maintain magnesium levels between 1250-1350 ppm.
- Nitrates & Phosphates: Keep these as close to zero as possible. Excessive levels promote algae growth, which can negatively impact SPS corals.
Regular water changes (10-20% weekly or bi-weekly) with high-quality salt mix are essential. Consider using a protein skimmer, refugium, and other filtration methods to maintain water quality.
3. Providing Proper Lighting
SPS corals require intense lighting for photosynthesis. Suitable lighting options include:
- Metal Halides: A traditional choice offering high intensity but also generating considerable heat.
- T5 Fluorescent Bulbs: Provide good coverage and are less expensive than metal halides, but less intense.
- LEDs: The most popular modern option, offering energy efficiency, adjustable spectrum, and lower heat output.
The specific lighting requirements will vary depending on the species of SPS coral. Research the needs of your specific corals. Acclimation is key when introducing corals to new lighting to prevent bleaching.
4. Managing Nutrients
While SPS corals require pristine water, they also need access to certain nutrients. The key is to find a balance:
- Amino Acids: Can be dosed to provide building blocks for coral growth.
- Trace Elements: Elements like iron, iodine, and strontium are essential for coral coloration and skeletal growth.
Nutrient levels should be carefully monitored, and dosing should be done responsibly. Excessive nutrient levels can lead to algae blooms, outcompeting the coral for resources.
5. Performing Routine Tank Maintenance
Regular maintenance is vital for a healthy SPS reef tank:
- Water Changes: As mentioned above, regular water changes are non-negotiable.
- Equipment Maintenance: Clean pumps, skimmers, and other equipment regularly.
- Algae Control: Remove algae manually or with algae-eating invertebrates.
- Testing: Regularly test water parameters to ensure stability and make adjustments as needed.
- Observation: Closely observe your corals for any signs of stress or disease.
By adhering to these principles, you can create a thriving environment for SPS corals and enjoy their beauty in your reef aquarium.
