The JF Grafted Sun Montipora capricornis is a standout SPS coral prized for its swirling plating growth and wild mix of red, orange, and sometimes green grafted patches. It’s not the hardest Monti to keep, but it does demand stable, SPS-ready conditions to really shine.

Ideal Placement & Lighting

Placement is key with this coral, both for color and growth pattern.

• Position: Mid to upper rockwork where it can grow outward without shading prized corals beneath.
• Lighting: Moderate to high PAR (200–300). Too little light leads to dull, brownish tones; too much can bleach new growth.
• Acclimation tip: Start it lower or in slightly shaded areas and move it up over 1–2 weeks to avoid light shock.
• Flow: Strong, random flow that keeps detritus off the plates and prevents tissue recession on shaded undersides.

Water Parameters & Day-to-Day Care

Like most SPS, the JF Grafted Sun rewards stability more than perfection.

• Target parameters: Alkalinity 8–9 dKH, calcium 420–450 ppm, magnesium 1300–1400 ppm, nitrate 5–15 ppm, phosphate 0.03–0.08 ppm.
• Testing routine: Check alkalinity at least 2–3 times per week; Montis quickly reveal swings through pale tips or slowed growth.
• Dosing: Once you see steady plating, consider automated dosing to keep alk and calcium from drifting.
• Feeding: While it can live on light and fish waste, occasional broadcast feeding with fine coral foods can boost growth and color.

Fragging & Growth Management

Plan for growth early—this coral can shade everything below it.

• Use bone cutters to trim outer edges and maintain a pleasing shape.
• Mount frags on small plugs or tiles so they can easily be moved or traded.
• Keep a bit of space from neighboring SPS to avoid warfare and overgrowth.

Dial in stability, give it room, and the JF Grafted Sun Montipora capricornis will become a bright, sculptural centerpiece in your reef.