Acropora acuminata

Acropora acuminata is a staghorn Acropora recognised by its long, tapered branches that reach outward and upward rather than forming a dense thicket. In aquaculture it is most often seen in blue and purple, sometimes over a paler cream base, with colour strongest at the growing tips under strong light. Growth is moderate once settled, and a happy colony lays down an encrusting base before the branches really start to extend.

Care

This is an advanced SPS for a mature, stable system only. Alkalinity stability matters above all else — pick a target and hold it with minimal day-to-day swing, and keep calcium and magnesium consistent alongside it so growth does not stall. It wants high light, roughly PAR 250–400, acclimated gradually, and strong random flow that surges from different directions rather than a constant jet aimed straight at the branches. Good polyp extension and a steadily spreading encrusting base are the clearest signs it is content; browning, pale tips, or recession usually point first to a chemistry swing or a sudden change in light or flow.

Placement and growth

Place it high in the rockwork, in the top zone, with room to branch freely. Keep at least 2 in of clearance from neighbouring corals on all sides, and give a staghorn like this extra forward space — those long tapered branches will use it, and they should not be allowed to shade or grow into slower corals below. Mount it firmly so flow cannot rock it, let it encrust first, and avoid moving it once it starts basing out.