Oregon Blue Tort Acropora

Oregon Blue Tort Acropora: Care Guide for Vivid Sapphire Branches

The Oregon Blue Tort Acropora is one of the most sought-after SPS corals in the reef aquarium hobby. Its intense, sapphire-blue branches and contrasting polyps can become a true centerpiece in a mature reef tank. This guide covers care, placement, and growth tips so you can keep this legendary Acropora thriving long-term.

Lighting & Placement for Oregon Blue Tort Acropora

This coral is a high-light, high-energy SPS that rewards proper conditions with dense branching and deep coloration.

  • Lighting: Strong PAR in the 250–350 range is ideal under quality LED, T5, or metal halide systems.
  • Placement: Upper third of the rockwork, where it can receive intense, stable light.
  • Acclimation: Start in slightly lower light and gradually move it higher over 2–3 weeks to avoid bleaching.
  • Shading: Avoid placing it directly under large, shadow-casting colonies that can stunt growth.

For more on balancing light for SPS, see our guide on SPS coral lighting best practices.

Flow, Parameters & Stability

The Oregon Blue Tort Acropora appreciates strong, varied flow that keeps its branches clean and well-oxygenated.

  • Flow: High, turbulent flow with alternating patterns; avoid blasting a single powerhead directly at the colony.
  • Temperature: 76–78°F (24–26°C) with minimal daily swings.
  • Salinity: 1.025–1.026 specific gravity.
  • Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH, stable.
  • Calcium: 420–450 ppm.
  • Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm.

Stability is more important than chasing perfect numbers. Rapid swings in alkalinity or temperature are the fastest way to stress this coral.

Learn how to keep parameters steady in our article on maintaining stable reef parameters.

Feeding, Coloration & Long-Term Success

While the Oregon Blue Tort Acropora relies heavily on light and its zooxanthellae, targeted nutrition can enhance growth and color.

  • Feeding: Occasional doses of high-quality amino acids or fine particulate coral foods can support tissue health.
  • Nutrients: Keep nitrate in the 2–10 ppm range and phosphate around 0.03–0.08 ppm to avoid pale tissue.
  • Coloration: Consistent lighting spectrum (14–20K appearance) and moderate nutrients help maintain that rich, royal-blue tone.
  • Pests: Regularly inspect for Acropora-eating flatworms and nudibranchs; quarantine new SPS additions whenever possible.

For more SPS-focused husbandry tips, explore our beginner SPS coral care guide.

With bright light, strong flow, and rock-solid stability, the Oregon Blue Tort Acropora can become a striking, long-lived showpiece in your reef tank, rewarding your attention to detail with dense branching and unforgettable blue coloration.