The Splatted Hammer Euphyllia coral is a standout LPS (large polyp stony) coral prized for its branching hammer tips and wild, splattered coloration. It’s hardy enough for many hobbyists, but it still needs thoughtful care to thrive and keep its vivid look.
Tank Placement & Lighting
Splatted Hammers prefer stability over perfection. Focus on consistency and moderate conditions.
- Lighting: Moderate PAR (80–150). Too much light can bleach the tissue; too little dulls color.
- Placement: Mid to lower rockwork or on a stable frag rack. Keep 3–4 inches from aggressive neighbors.
- Flow: Gentle, indirect, swaying flow. The tentacles should move like grass in a breeze, not whip around.
Tip: If the polyps stay tightly retracted for more than a day, reduce flow or light intensity by 10–20% and observe.
Feeding, Parameters & Long-Term Health
Good water quality and occasional feeding will keep your Splatted Hammer fleshy and growing.
- Parameters:
- Alkalinity: 8–9.5 dKH (avoid big daily swings)
- Calcium: 420–450 ppm
- Magnesium: 1300–1400 ppm
- Nitrate: 5–15 ppm; Phosphate: 0.03–0.1 ppm
- Feeding: 1–2× per week target-feed small meaty foods (mysis, reef roids). Turn off flow for 10–15 minutes so it can capture food.
- Acclimation: Light-acclimate over 1–2 weeks using reduced intensity or a lower placement, then move it higher if needed.
- Pest & aggression control: Watch for brown jelly disease, receding tissue, or stinging from torches and other Euphyllia. Give it its own “island” if space allows.
With stable parameters, moderate light and flow, and a bit of feeding, the Splatted Hammer Euphyllia becomes a centerpiece coral that adds motion and color to any reef tank.
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