Acropora kimbeensis

Acropora kimbeensis forms a bottlebrush cluster, its branches rising in a compact, upright bunch. Aquacultured pieces are distinctive in yellow-green, often finished with orange to pink tips when light and chemistry suit them. Growth is moderate, and the cluster fills in gradually into a dense, colourful head.

Care

This is an advanced Acropora for a mature, stable SPS system. Alkalinity stability comes first — keep swings minimal and hold calcium and magnesium consistent so the colony can calcify steadily. It appreciates high light in the PAR 250–400 range, introduced gradually, with medium to high random flow that reaches into the cluster rather than a constant jet on its outer branches. Compact bottlebrush colonies can collect detritus at the base, so flow through the colony matters as much as flow around it. Look for an encrusting base and good polyp extension; the warm tip colours are a useful indicator that light and chemistry are where this species likes them.

Placement and growth

Give it a top placement with at least 2 in of clearance from neighbouring corals on all sides — the cluster will widen as it matures. Set it where flow can approach from more than one direction, mount it firmly, and let it base out before judging its colour or growth rate.