Hammer Coral Care Guide

General Overview

The Hammer Coral, a very vibrant addition to any reef tank, is known for its unique hammer-like tentacles and striking colors. This coral is moderately popular in the marine aquarium trade but can pose a challenge due to its specific requirements. It is uncommon in the wild, making responsible sourcing important.

Tank Setup

The Hammer Coral prefers a stable environment with moderate water flow and proper lighting. An aquarium of at least 20 gallons is recommended to provide ample space for growth and to ensure stable water parameters. Use live rock for aquascaping which provides not only a natural habitat but also biological filtration.

Lighting should be moderate to high, such as LED or T5 setups, as the Hammer Coral thrives with sufficient light. Ensure that the coral is not placed too close to strong currents or other corals due to its highly territorial and semi-aggressive nature.

Water Conditions

Maintain water temperature between 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C) with a salinity of 1.023 to 1.025 specific gravity. It is crucial to keep calcium levels between 400 to 450 ppm, alkalinity at 8-12 dKH, and magnesium levels at 1250 to 1350 ppm. Regular water changes and consistent water quality are essential to prevent stress and disease.

Feeding

While hammer corals are photosynthetic, they benefit substantially from supplemental feeding. They can capture plankton and small meaty foods from the water column. Feed them with finely chopped shrimp, marine pellet food, or specialized coral foods once or twice a week to boost growth and vibrancy.

Compatibility and Placement

Due to its highly territorial and semi-aggressive behavior, care should be taken when placing Hammer Corals near other corals. They have long sweeper tentacles that can sting neighboring corals, so allow adequate spacing. Placing the Hammer Coral in the mid to lower sections of the tank is ideal, ensuring it's sheltered from direct flow.

Maintenance and Care

The Hammer Coral is relatively low maintenance, but regular attention and upkeep are necessary for optimal health. Ensure consistent water parameters through weekly water changes and test the water regularly for key elements like calcium and magnesium. Inspect the coral frequently for potential issues such as pests or tissue recession.

Additional Notes

The Hammer Coral is resilient but can be challenging for beginners due to its specific water quality needs and territorial behavior. It is regarded as a 'Least Concern' species in terms of conservation status, but always ensure any purchase is sustainably sourced.