The Vivid Rainbow Delight Acropora is a show-stopping SPS coral that brings intense color and movement to any thriving reef tank. With its multicolored branches and shimmering polyp extension, this Acropora has become a favorite for hobbyists who love vibrant, high-energy reefs.
Vivid Rainbow Delight Acropora Care Requirements
Keeping the Vivid Rainbow Delight Acropora happy means providing stable, high-quality reef conditions. This coral rewards consistency with bold coloration and strong growth.
- Lighting: Medium to high PAR (250–400) under quality LED, T5, or hybrid setups. Too little light can dull colors, while excessive intensity may cause bleaching.
- Flow: Strong, random flow is ideal. Aim for turbulent movement rather than a direct blast to prevent tissue damage.
- Placement: Upper to mid-level rockwork, where it can receive bright light and solid water movement.
- Parameters: Keep alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium stable, with low nutrients but not ultra-sterile water.
Target stability over perfection. Small, consistent corrections are better than big swings in water chemistry.
- Recommended ranges:
- Alkalinity: 8–9.5 dKH
- Calcium: 420–460 ppm
- Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
- Nitrate: 2–10 ppm
- Phosphate: 0.03–0.08 ppm
Coloration, Growth, and Feeding
The Vivid Rainbow Delight Acropora is known for its striking blend of reds, pinks, yellows, and blues, which shift depending on lighting spectrum and nutrient levels. Under a balanced blue-heavy spectrum, its tips and polyps often glow with intense fluorescence.
While this coral relies mainly on photosynthesis, moderate feeding can support growth and coloration:
- Broadcast feed fine particulate foods such as reef roids, powdered plankton, or amino acid supplements.
- Feed at night or when polyps are extended for better uptake.
- Avoid overfeeding, which can drive nutrients too high and encourage nuisance algae.
Tips for Long-Term Success with Vivid Rainbow Delight Acropora
Like most Acropora, this piece thrives in mature, stable reef systems. Sudden changes are its biggest enemy.
- Acclimate to light slowly: Use a light acclimation mode or start the coral lower and move it upward over 2–3 weeks.
- Maintain strong export: Use a quality protein skimmer, regular water changes, and possibly refugium or media to keep nutrients in check.
- Test regularly: Weekly testing of alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium helps you spot trends before issues appear.
- Watch for pests: Inspect for Acropora-eating flatworms and other hitchhikers; consider dipping new corals before adding them to your display.
Pairing with Other SPS Corals
The Vivid Rainbow Delight Acropora looks incredible when combined with contrasting SPS pieces. Consider pairing it with deep blue Acropora, bright green Montipora, or pastel-colored Millepora for a dynamic display. Just be sure to allow room for growth and avoid direct contact between colonies.
For more SPS care insights, explore our guides on Acropora care, learn how to stabilize reef tank parameters, and check out our best LED lights for SPS corals to help your Vivid Rainbow Delight Acropora reach its full potential.