Hawkins Echinata Acropora

Hawkins Echinata Acropora: Care Guide for Stunning Blue Branches

The Hawkins Echinata Acropora is a standout SPS coral known for its intense blue coloration and delicate, bottlebrush-style branches. With the right conditions, this coral can become a true centerpiece in any modern reef aquarium.

Lighting and Placement for Hawkins Echinata Acropora

This coral thrives under strong, stable lighting and benefits from a well-planned placement strategy. Too little light leads to dull colors, while too much too fast can cause tissue damage.

  • Lighting: Medium to high PAR (250–350) under quality LED, T5, or hybrid systems
  • Placement: Upper to mid sections of the rockwork with space for branching growth
  • Acclimation: Start lower and gradually move higher over 2–3 weeks
  • Shading: Avoid direct shading from larger colonies or overhanging rock

For more SPS lighting tips, see our guide on best lighting for Acropora corals.

Water Flow and Stability Requirements

The Hawkins Echinata Acropora prefers strong, random flow that keeps detritus off its branches while delivering nutrients and oxygen to the tissue.

  • Flow intensity: Moderate to strong, with alternating patterns
  • Direction: Indirect, turbulent flow rather than a constant blast
  • Turnover: Aim for 30–50x tank volume per hour in total circulation

Equally important is rock-solid water chemistry. This coral responds quickly to swings in parameters, so consistency is key.

  • Temperature: 77–79°F (25–26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.025–1.026 specific gravity
  • Alkalinity: 8–9.5 dKH, minimal daily fluctuation
  • Calcium: 420–450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
  • Nutrients: Nitrate 5–15 ppm, phosphate 0.03–0.08 ppm

Tip: If you notice pale tissue or burned tips, check for rapid alkalinity swings or sudden increases in PAR.

Coloration, Feeding, and Long-Term Success

One of the main reasons reef keepers love the Hawkins Echinata Acropora is its rich blue coloration with contrasting polyps. Achieving and maintaining that color is a balance of light, nutrients, and trace elements.

  • Coloration: Stable nutrients and proper spectrum (14–20K appearance) help maintain deep blues
  • Feeding: While largely photosynthetic, it benefits from occasional broadcast feeding of fine coral foods
  • Trace elements: Regular water changes or careful dosing of elements like potassium and iron can support color

As the colony grows, ensure you maintain flow paths around the branches and watch for any tissue recession at the base. Early intervention with improved flow and stability often reverses minor issues.

If you’re building an SPS-dominated system, you may also enjoy our article on best beginner SPS corals for tank mates that complement this species.

Is Hawkins Echinata Acropora Right for Your Tank?

This coral is best suited for reef keepers who already have some SPS experience and a mature, stable system. If your parameters are consistent and you can provide strong light and flow, the Hawkins Echinata Acropora will reward you with vivid color and intricate structure that truly elevates your reef.

For more advanced coral care and aquascape planning, explore our complete SPS reef tank guide.