ECC Superman Porites

Quick Stats

• Care Level: Moderate
• Coral Type: SPS (Small Polyp Stony)
• Lighting Requirement: Medium/High (200-350 PAR)
• Flow: High
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Placement: Rockwork
• Approximate Purchase Size: 3/4"

Overview

The ECC Superman Porites is a bright encrusting SPS coral with a rich red coloration. Porites are well-suited for stable reef systems with consistent parameters. Once established, the coral spreads across rock surfaces and may develop short finger-like extensions over time. This coral does well in high-energy reef environments where water movement and lighting are properly dialed in.

Note: This is not a WYSIWYG listing. Photo is a representation of the shape, size, and color of the coral you will receive.

Water Parameters

Corals thrive in stable water conditions with regular water changes. Corals with a hard skeleton, like this one, will consume calcium and alkalinity as they grow, often requiring additional supplementation. Routine water testing helps ensure these needs are consistently met.

• Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.025-1.026
• Temperature: 75-78 Degrees F
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Alkalinity: 8-9.5 dKH
• Calcium: 400-450ppm
• Magnesium: 1300-1450ppm
• Nitrate (NO3): 10-25ppm
• Phosphate: 0.01-0.1ppm
• Nitrite (NO2): Undetectable
• Ammonia (NH3): Undetectable

Lighting Requirements

Porites does best in medium/high light, around 200-350 PAR. Although adaptable to other light conditions, gradual acclimation to these light levels is recommended to avoid stress. 

For those with mixed reef tanks, a PAR meter is invaluable for fine-tuning light levels across different corals, helping ensure each coral gets the right intensity for its needs. This careful setup supports the coral’s vibrant color and long-term health.

Ideal Tank Placement

Place Porites directly on rockwork where it will encrust onto the rock surface.

Water Flow Requirements

Strong water flow is ideal. The short polyps can withstand high flow that is typical of SPS reef tanks.

Aggressiveness and Compatibility

Like other encrusting corals, it's important to give it room to grow out. While Porites isn't an inherently aggressive coral, it will fight with any neighboring corals it comes into direct contact with.

Feeding and Nutrition

Primarily photosynthetic, this Porites can thrive on light alone, though occasional feedings with coral foods such as Reef Chili. Supplementing with amino acids like CoralAmino can also support polyp health and coloration.

Growth Rate and Pattern

This Porites has a moderate growth rate, spreading over the rock surface then growing finger-like structures upwards from the encrusting base.

Acclimation Process

Acclimation is essential for corals to adjust to their new environment. For a full step-by-step process, refer to our Coral Acclimation Guide.