Unicorn Horn Acropora Coral

Unicorn Horn Acropora, Acropora sp., is a branching stony coral with thick upright branches and prominent axial corallites at the branch tips. This WYSIWYG specimen displays pale lavender to bluish-purple tissue with subtle greenish tones and darker purple corallites distributed along the branch surfaces. The combination of thick, tapered branches and pronounced axial tips gives the colony its distinctive “unicorn horn” appearance. Like other Acropora, this coral contains symbiotic zooxanthellae that provide much of its nutritional energy through photosynthesis, while its small polyps can also capture fine suspended foods. Under stable reef conditions, Acropora can develop into complex branching colonies with substantial vertical and lateral growth. Because species-level identification of Acropora cannot be confirmed reliably from a photograph alone, Acropora sp. is the scientifically appropriate designation for this specimen.

Care Guide: Acropora sp. is best suited to established reef aquariums with stable water chemistry. Provide moderate to high lighting and strong, turbulent, randomized water movement. Avoid directing a constant narrow jet at the colony, but ensure enough circulation to keep detritus from settling around the branches and corallites. Maintain very stable temperature, salinity, alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium. Consistent, measurable nitrate and phosphate are generally preferable to severely nutrient-depleted conditions. Place on stable middle to upper rockwork with room for future branching growth. Most nutrition comes from photosynthesis, although very fine planktonic foods may supplement feeding. Gradually acclimate to stronger lighting and inspect carefully for common Acropora pests such as red bugs and Acropora-eating flatworms.