Cornbreds Lemon Sour Millepora Acropora

Cornbreds Lemon Sour Millepora Acropora: A Zesty Showpiece for SPS Lovers

The Cornbreds Lemon Sour Millepora Acropora is a standout SPS coral prized for its electric yellow to lime coloration and fine, spiky branches. For reef keepers who love high-energy, colorful Acropora, this piece can become a true centerpiece when given the right conditions.

Appearance and Ideal Placement

This coral typically shows off:

  • Bright lemon to neon green branches with contrasting polyps
  • Dense, spiky growth that creates a bushy, textured colony
  • Best color under strong blue-heavy reef lighting

Place Cornbreds Lemon Sour Millepora Acropora in the upper half of the tank where it can receive:

  • High PAR: Generally 250–350+ depending on your light system
  • Strong, random flow: Enough to keep polyps moving without blasting tissue
  • Stable rockwork: Secure mounting to support upward and outward growth

For more on choosing the right zone for SPS, see our guide on reef aquarium lighting.

Water Parameters and Care Requirements

Like most high-end Acropora, this coral thrives in very stable, ultra-clean water. Aim for:

  • Temperature: 24–26°C (75–78°F)
  • Salinity: 1.025–1.026 specific gravity
  • Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH (minimal daily swing)
  • Calcium: 420–450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
  • Nitrate: 2–10 ppm
  • Phosphate: 0.03–0.08 ppm

Tip: Cornbreds Lemon Sour Millepora Acropora often loses color quickly in unstable systems. Prioritize consistency over chasing ultra-low numbers.

Automated dosing or a calcium reactor is highly recommended to keep up with skeletal growth. Regular testing and small parameter corrections are key to long-term health. Our SPS coral care basics article covers stability strategies in more detail.

Color, Growth, and Acclimation Tips

To keep that vibrant “lemon sour” look, focus on lighting, nutrients, and trace elements:

  • Light acclimation: Start in moderate light and increase intensity over 2–3 weeks to avoid bleaching.
  • Balanced nutrients: Avoid both zero nutrients and heavy pollution; a lightly fed, lightly stocked tank works well.
  • Trace elements: Regular water changes or a trusted trace dosing regimen can help maintain saturation of yellow and green pigments.
  • Flow patterns: Use alternating or random flow modes to reduce dead spots and encourage even growth.

When healthy, Cornbreds Lemon Sour Millepora Acropora will show strong polyp extension during the day and develop a fuller, more intricate branch structure over time. Keep an eye out for tissue recession at the base, burnt tips from excess alkalinity, or pale coloration from too much light too quickly.

If you’re building an SPS-dominated reef, pairing this coral with complementary Acropora and Montipora can create a stunning contrast. Check out our beginner SPS coral list for compatible species and layout ideas.