CB Flaming Phoenix Acropora

CB Flaming Phoenix Acropora: Care Guide for Fiery SPS Color

The CB Flaming Phoenix Acropora is a standout SPS coral prized for its intense reds, oranges, and glowing highlights. With the right lighting, flow, and stability, this coral can become the visual centerpiece of a modern reef tank.

Lighting & Placement for CB Flaming Phoenix Acropora

This Acropora thrives under strong, stable lighting and consistent conditions. Its coloration can shift dramatically based on spectrum and intensity, so a thoughtful placement plan is essential.

  • Lighting intensity: Moderate to high PAR (250–350) is a common target for vibrant color and healthy growth.
  • Spectrum: Blue-heavy LED or hybrid T5/LED setups tend to bring out the fiery reds and glowing tips.
  • Placement: Upper to mid-level rockwork where it receives strong, indirect light rather than harsh spotlighting.
  • Acclimation: Start the coral lower and gradually move it upward over 2–3 weeks to avoid light shock.

For more on SPS placement and lighting, check out our guide to SPS coral lighting and PAR zones.

Flow, Parameters & Stability

The CB Flaming Phoenix Acropora prefers energetic, turbulent flow that keeps its tissue clean and well-oxygenated without blasting the polyps directly.

  • Flow: Strong, random flow from alternating powerheads or a gyre-style pump.
  • Temperature: 24–26°C (75–78°F) with minimal daily swings.
  • Salinity: 1.025–1.026 specific gravity.
  • Alkalinity: 8.0–9.0 dKH, with changes kept under 0.3 dKH per day.
  • Calcium & magnesium: Calcium 420–450 ppm, magnesium 1300–1400 ppm.
  • Nutrients: Nitrate 5–15 ppm, phosphate 0.03–0.08 ppm to avoid pale tissue.

With this coral, stability beats perfection. Slightly elevated but consistent nutrients often produce deeper color than ultra-low nutrient systems.

Feeding, Growth Tips & Common Issues

Like most Acropora, the CB Flaming Phoenix Acropora relies heavily on light and water chemistry, but targeted feeding and good husbandry can accelerate growth and color.

Feeding & Maintenance

  • Offer fine particulate foods (reef roids, powdered plankton) 1–2 times per week with pumps briefly turned down.
  • Maintain a steady dosing schedule for alkalinity and calcium; consider an automated doser for consistency.
  • Test alkalinity at least 2–3 times per week in growing SPS systems.
  • Perform regular 10–15% water changes to replenish trace elements.

For a broader overview of keeping small-polyp stony corals, visit our article on Acropora care for reef aquariums.

Troubleshooting Color & Health

  • Paling or bleaching: Often linked to too much light or sudden parameter changes; reduce intensity and check alkalinity.
  • Browned-out tissue: Usually from low light or excess nutrients; slowly increase PAR and improve export.
  • Tissue recession at the base: Check for pests (Acropora-eating flatworms, nudibranchs) and verify stable alkalinity and temperature.

If you’re planning a mixed SPS system featuring CB Flaming Phoenix Acropora, our best SPS for reef tanks guide can help you choose compatible species and growth forms.

With strong lighting, vigorous flow, and rock-solid stability, the CB Flaming Phoenix Acropora will reward you with intense color and branching growth that truly lives up to its fiery name.