Ultra Acan Lordhowensis

Ultra Acan Lordhowensis, Micromussa lordhowensis, is a colonial stony coral prized for its large fleshy polyps, deeply defined corallites, and intense multicolor pigmentation. This WYSIWYG specimen displays vivid orange-red tissue with contrasting fluorescent green outer margins and darker purple-gray rings surrounding the mouths, creating a striking high-contrast appearance. The thick fleshy polyps expand over the underlying skeleton and can form tightly packed colonies as new corallites develop around the edges. Formerly widely known in the aquarium trade as Acanthastrea lordhowensis, this species is now classified as Micromussa lordhowensis. It contains symbiotic photosynthetic dinoflagellates that provide much of its nutritional energy, while its large polyps can also capture zooplankton and appropriately sized meaty foods.

Care Guide: Micromussa lordhowensis generally performs best under low to moderate reef lighting with low to moderate, indirect water movement. Excessively strong lighting can cause fading or tissue stress, so brighter conditions should be introduced gradually. Place on stable lower to middle rockwork or on the aquarium bottom where the fleshy tissue will not rub against sharp surfaces. Maintain stable temperature, salinity, alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium along with consistent measurable nitrate and phosphate. Although strongly photosynthetic, this species often responds well to occasional targeted feeding with small meaty or planktonic foods. Allow adequate space from neighboring corals because expanded polyps and feeding tentacles can contact nearby specimens.