Aussie Highlighter Acropora

Aussie Highlighter Acropora: Care Guide for Vivid Reef Color

The Aussie Highlighter Acropora is a standout SPS coral prized for its intense neon hues and fast growth when conditions are just right. This guide walks through lighting, flow, placement, and water quality so you can keep this eye-catching Acropora thriving in your reef tank.

Lighting & Placement for Aussie Highlighter Acropora

This coral loves bright, stable conditions. Getting the lighting and placement right is the first step toward keeping its glowing color.

  • Lighting intensity: Medium–high PAR, typically in the 250–350 range.
  • Lighting type: Quality LEDs, T5s, or a hybrid system with even coverage.
  • Placement: Upper to mid-level rockwork where it can receive strong, consistent light.
  • Acclimation: Start lower and gradually move it up over 2–3 weeks to prevent bleaching.

Shadows and hot spots can cause patchy color, so aim for smooth, overlapping light spread rather than a single intense beam.

Flow & Water Parameters

Aussie Highlighter Acropora prefers clean, stable water and strong, turbulent flow. Sudden swings are far more harmful than slightly imperfect numbers.

  • Flow: Strong, random flow; avoid direct, laminar blasts that can damage tissue.
  • Temperature: 24–26°C (75–78°F) with minimal daily fluctuation.
  • Salinity: 1.025–1.026 specific gravity.
  • Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH, kept very stable.
  • Calcium: 420–450 ppm.
  • Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm.
  • Nutrients: Nitrate 2–10 ppm, phosphate 0.03–0.08 ppm.

Consistency matters more than chasing perfect numbers. Pick a reasonable target range and hold it steady.

Feeding, Color, and Long-Term Success

While this Acropora relies heavily on light and its zooxanthellae, modest feeding and good nutrient control can intensify its color.

  • Offer occasional broadcast feedings of fine particle coral foods at night.
  • Maintain moderate nutrients; ultra-low nutrient systems can lead to pale coloration.
  • Use activated carbon and regular water changes to reduce chemical warfare from soft corals.
  • Test alkalinity frequently if you keep many stony corals, as demand can rise quickly.

For more on keeping SPS corals healthy, see our guide to SPS coral care and our overview of reef tank lighting setups. If you are planning a new build around pieces like the Aussie Highlighter Acropora, our beginner reef tank setup article can help you design a stable system from day one.

With strong light, lively flow, and stable parameters, the Aussie Highlighter Acropora can become a glowing centerpiece that showcases the best of what a mature reef aquarium can offer.