ECC Thunderstruck Psammocora

Quick Stats

• Care Level: Moderate
• Coral Type: SPS (Small Polyp Stony)
• Lighting Requirement: Medium (150-250 PAR)
• Flow: Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Placement: Rockwork
• Approximate Purchase Size: 3/4"

Overview

With vivid green edges and a deep purple center, the Thunderstruck Psammocora is a showstopper in any reef tank. Its electric coloration and fuzzy polyp texture give it a bold, high-voltage appearance that's unlike anything else. Psammocora corals are hardy and relatively fast-growing for SPS, making them a great addition for hobbyists looking to add some unique texture and color to their rockwork without the fragility of more finicky SPS species.

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

This coral thrives 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): 1.024-1.026
• Temperature: 75-78 Degrees F
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Alkalinity: 8-9dKH
• Calcium: 380-450ppm
• Magnesium: 1300-1450ppm
• Nitrate (NO3): 10-30ppm
• Phosphate: 0.01-0.1ppm
• Nitrite (NO2): Undetectable
• Ammonia (NH3): Undetectable

Lighting Requirements

Psammocora does best in medium light, around 150-250 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 Psammocora on rockwork, where it can encrust and spread naturally.

Water Flow Requirements

Moderate water flow is ideal. Aim for movement that’s enough to move coral’s polyps without blasting it directly, as this helps with nutrient flow and keeps debris from collecting on the surface.

Aggressiveness and Compatibility

Like all encrusting corals, it's important to give Psammocora room to grow. While they don't have sweeper tentacles that extend to sting neighboring corals, they will inevitably fight any corals they come into direct contact with.

Feeding and Nutrition

Primarily photosynthetic, this Psammocora can thrive on light alone, though occasional feedings with coral foods such as Reef Chili and Amino Acids like CoralAmino can enhance its growth and coloration.

Growth Rate and Pattern

This Psammocora has a moderate growth rate, spreading over surfaces to form a textured mat. Its encrusting growth pattern makes it easy to incorporate into a range of aquascapes, adding depth and color without quickly overtaking other corals.

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.