PC Rainbow Acropora

PC Rainbow Acropora: Color, Growth, and Care Tips

The PC Rainbow Acropora is a standout SPS coral prized for its intense color shifts and dynamic growth. With the right lighting and water quality, this acro can show vivid reds, oranges, yellows, greens, and blues all on a single colony, making it a centerpiece in many reef tanks.

Lighting and Placement for PC Rainbow Acropora

Lighting is the main driver of color and health for PC Rainbow Acropora. It typically prefers bright, stable conditions once acclimated.

  • Light intensity: Moderate to high PAR (250–350) is ideal for most systems.
  • Light spectrum: A blue-heavy spectrum (around 14K–20K) enhances the rainbow coloration.
  • Placement: Upper to mid-level rockwork with strong, indirect flow works well.
  • Acclimation: Start lower or in slightly shaded areas, then move it up over 1–2 weeks.

Watch for signs of stress such as bleaching or tissue recession. If you see pale tissue, reduce intensity slightly or shorten the photoperiod.

Water Parameters and Nutrient Balance

PC Rainbow Acropora responds best to stable, ultra-consistent parameters rather than chasing exact numbers. Aim for a balanced, low-nutrient reef environment.

  • Temperature: 77–79°F (25–26°C)
  • Salinity: 1.025–1.026 specific gravity
  • Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH with minimal daily swing
  • Calcium: 420–450 ppm
  • Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
  • Nitrate: 2–10 ppm
  • Phosphate: 0.03–0.08 ppm

Tip: Pick a reasonable alkalinity target and hold it steady. Rapid swings stress PC Rainbow Acropora more than slightly imperfect numbers.

Automated dosing for alkalinity, calcium, and magnesium is highly recommended as this coral begins to grow and demand increases. Regular testing will help you keep consumption in check.

Flow, Feeding, and Long-Term Success

Healthy PC Rainbow Acropora colonies thrive in strong, random flow and benefit from a light, consistent nutrient supply.

  • Flow: Strong, turbulent flow that keeps polyps moving without blasting tissue.
  • Feeding: While they rely mainly on light, occasional broadcast feeding of fine coral foods can support growth.
  • Stability: Avoid big swings in temperature, salinity, and nutrients when doing water changes.
  • Pest control: Inspect new SPS carefully for pests like Acropora-eating flatworms and red bugs.

For more SPS care basics, see our guide on SPS coral care, and if you are building out a mixed reef, our beginner reef tank guide covers rockwork, flow planning, and nutrient export options.

Is PC Rainbow Acropora Right for Your Tank?

If you already keep a few hardy SPS and maintain stable parameters, PC Rainbow Acropora is a rewarding next step. Its shifting palette and branching structure add height, movement, and color contrast to your aquascape. With patience, consistency, and careful placement, this coral can become one of the most eye-catching pieces in your reef.

Ready to dial in your SPS system? Check out our article on the best LED lights for SPS corals to match your lighting to the needs of PC Rainbow Acropora and other high-demand species.