The PC Rainbow Acropora is a showpiece SPS coral. Its bright reds, yellows, and greens can transform a reef tank. With the right care, a small frag can grow into a stunning colony.
PC Rainbow Acropora Colony Basics
PC Rainbow is a branching Acropora with intense rainbow coloration. New growth tips often show neon yellow and green. Older branches can shift to deep reds and blues under strong light. Color will change with lighting and nutrients, so consistency is key.
Place PC Rainbow high in the aquascape. Aim for PAR between 250 and 400 at the colony. Use strong, blue-heavy LED or T5 lighting. Many reefers see the best color around 14K–18K spectrum. Avoid sudden light changes. Increase intensity by 5–10% per week when acclimating new frags.
Water flow should be strong and random. Use at least two wavemakers on alternating patterns. Target turnover of 30–50 times tank volume per hour. Avoid direct laminar jets pointing at the coral. Look for polyps moving briskly but not folding over.
- Ideal temperature: 77–79°F (25–26°C)
- Salinity: 1.025–1.026 specific gravity
- Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH, stable
- Calcium: 420–450 ppm
- Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
Placement, Feeding, and Troubleshooting
Start PC Rainbow as a frag on a stable plug or small rock. Place it where it will receive strong light and flow but no shading from larger colonies. Leave at least 3–4 inches from aggressive neighbors. PC Rainbow can grow fast once established, so plan for future branching.
Feed the colony indirectly. Healthy PC Rainbow relies mostly on light and clean water. Lightly broadcast feed fine particle foods 1–2 times per week. Turn off return pumps for 10–15 minutes during feeding. Heavy feeding can raise nutrients and dull colors.
- Keep nitrate between 5–15 ppm for good color
- Keep phosphate between 0.03–0.08 ppm
- Test alkalinity at least twice per week
- Use an auto doser for stable calcium and alkalinity
Watch for early stress signs. Pale tips can mean too much light or low nutrients. Brown, dull tissue often points to high nutrients or low flow. Rapid tissue loss at the base may signal alk swings or pests.
- Quarantine new Acropora frags for 4–6 weeks
- Dip frags to prevent Acropora-eating flatworms
- Avoid more than 0.3 dKH alkalinity change per day
- Use activated carbon if chemical warfare is suspected
With stable parameters and patience, your PC Rainbow Acropora can become a centerpiece colony. Focus on consistency first, then fine-tune light and nutrients for the brightest rainbow colors.
Price: $40 per Frag
