{"product_id":"green-montipora-hirsuta-frag","title":"Green Hirsuta Montipora Coral","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eQUICK STATS\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCare Level:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Moderate\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCoral Type:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e SPS \/ Branching Montipora\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Peaceful to Semi-Aggressive by Growth\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePhotosynthetic:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Yes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePlacement:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Middle to Upper \/ Rockwork\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLighting:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Moderate to High\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWater Flow:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Moderate to Strong \/ High, Random\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eApproximate Purchase Size:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Varies by Frag Size\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eApproximate Max Size:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Branching Colony Growth Depends on Stability, Space, Lighting, and Flow\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGREEN HIRSUTA MONTIPORA CORAL\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGreen Hirsuta Montipora Coral\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is a branching SPS coral known for its bright green coloration, textured surface, and compact upward growth. Unlike plating Montipora capricornis varieties, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMontipora hirsuta\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e usually grows in a more branching, knobby, or bushy form, making it a great option for reef keepers who want SPS structure without the flat shelving look of a cap coral.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDepending on the specimen and lighting, Green Hirsuta Montipora may appear neon green, lime green, yellow-green, metallic green, teal-green, or deep fluorescent green. Under blue-heavy reef lighting, the coral can show strong fluorescence and visible polyp texture across the branches. Basically, it is a glowing green SPS shrub that demands stability like a tiny unpaid aquarium manager.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMontipora corals are popular because they offer strong SPS color and growth while usually being more forgiving than many Acropora. That does not mean they are beginner-proof. Green Hirsuta Montipora still needs stable alkalinity, proper lighting, strong varied flow, and a mature aquarium. “Easier SPS” is not a permission slip for reef chaos, despite humanity’s impressive history of treating it like one.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Green Hirsuta Montipora is \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ephotosynthetic\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and receives much of its energy from reef lighting. It may also benefit from dissolved nutrients, amino acids, and fine particulate foods in established reef systems. It is generally peaceful by sting, but it can compete for space as it branches outward and shades nearby corals.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis coral is usually considered \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003epeaceful\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, but it can become semi-aggressive by growth. It may shade, crowd, or overgrow nearby corals as the colony expands. It does not need sweeper tentacles to cause problems. It simply becomes a green calcium bush and makes neighboring corals file complaints with no available department.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNote:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Image is a representation of what to expect. The coral you receive may vary slightly in size, branch shape, green intensity, polyp visibility, growth form, and overall appearance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAQUARIUM REQUIREMENTS\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAQUARIUM SIZE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA minimum aquarium size of \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e20-30 gallons or larger\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is recommended for Green Hirsuta Montipora, though larger mature reef systems are preferred. Larger aquariums provide better water stability, stronger flow options, and more room for branching SPS growth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMontipora hirsuta does not require a massive aquarium, but it does require stability. Small aquariums can work, but parameter swings happen faster and give SPS corals more opportunities to express disappointment through fading, browning, poor polyp extension, or tissue loss. Elegant system, naturally.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePLACEMENT RECOMMENDATIONS\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGreen Hirsuta Montipora is best placed on \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003emiddle to upper rockwork\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e where it receives moderate to high lighting and moderate to strong varied flow. Start lower if the coral is new, freshly shipped, or coming from lower lighting, then move it gradually once it shows good color, polyp extension, and growth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRock Placement:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Place securely on stable rockwork where the coral has room to branch outward and upward.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSandbed Placement:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Temporary sandbed placement can work during acclimation if lighting is intense, but long-term placement should usually be on rockwork with appropriate light and flow.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGrowth Space:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Leave open space around the frag for future branching growth. Hirsuta can develop into a compact bushy colony that shades or crowds nearby corals.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSpacing:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Leave space from nearby corals to prevent contact, shading, or overgrowth. It is not usually a strong stinger, but it can still win through growth and shade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSPS Zones:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Best placed in an SPS-friendly area with stable light, strong flow, and room for outward growth. Avoid placing it close to aggressive LPS corals such as torches, hammers, frogspawn, galaxea, favias, chalices, or acans.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWATER PARAMETERS\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGreen Hirsuta Montipora requires clean, stable reef conditions. Stability is more important than chasing perfect numbers. Sudden swings in alkalinity, salinity, nutrients, temperature, or lighting can cause fading, browning, bleaching, tissue recession, or stalled growth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 76-79°F\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003epH Level:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 8.1-8.4\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSalinity:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 1.025-1.026 specific gravity\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlkalinity:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 7.5-9 dKH\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCalcium:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 400-450 ppm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMagnesium:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 1250-1350 ppm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNitrate:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 2-10 ppm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePhosphate:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 0.03-0.08 ppm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAvoid major parameter swings. Montipora can adapt to different nutrient levels, but rapid changes are often the problem. Keep alkalinity especially stable. SPS corals do not appreciate chemistry surprises, which is tragic because reef keepers keep inventing them like it is a civic duty.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLIGHTING\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGreen Hirsuta Montipora prefers \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003emoderate to high lighting\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. A general target range of \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e150-300 PAR\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e works well for many branching Montipora corals once acclimated, though exact needs depend on the specific frag, previous lighting, nutrients, water clarity, and system stability.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLIGHTING RECOMMENDATIONS\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eModerate to High PAR:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Start around \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e125-150 PAR\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e if newly added, then gradually increase if stronger coloration and growth are desired.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLight Acclimation:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e New Montipora frags should be acclimated gradually to stronger lighting. Start lower or reduce intensity, then increase slowly over several days to weeks.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eColor Display:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Green Hirsuta Montipora often shows its best green, lime, yellow-green, or neon fluorescence under strong reef lighting with stable nutrients.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBranching Growth:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Good light exposure helps support stronger branch development, base encrusting, and overall colony density.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eToo Much Light:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Signs may include bleaching, pale tissue, fading, burnt tips, or tissue recession.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eToo Little Light:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Signs may include browning, dull coloration, weak growth, reduced branching, or loss of green intensity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDo not blast a fresh Green Hirsuta Montipora frag with maximum light because you want instant color. That is not reef keeping. That is photon-based impatience wearing a PAR meter.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWATER FLOW\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGreen Hirsuta Montipora prefers \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003emoderate to strong, random water flow\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. Flow should keep the surface clean, move through the branching structure, prevent detritus from collecting, and support gas exchange without blasting tissue from one direction.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFLOW RECOMMENDATIONS\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIdeal Flow:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Moderate to strong, varied, random flow that moves around and through the branches.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAvoid Direct Laminar Flow:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Constant direct blasting from one direction can irritate tissue, damage growth tips, or create uneven growth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAvoid Dead Spots:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Too little flow can allow detritus to settle around the base or inside the branching structure, which may contribute to algae growth or tissue stress.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBranch Cleanliness:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e As the coral grows, branches can create low-flow pockets. Reevaluate flow as the colony expands.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSurface Cleanliness:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e The coral surface should stay clean and free of settled waste. If detritus collects on the colony or base, increase indirect flow or adjust placement.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIf the coral starts losing tissue near the base or around areas where debris settles, evaluate flow and detritus buildup before blaming the coral for being “random.” It is not random. It is just a living thing responding to the underwater dust humans keep manufacturing.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDIET\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGreen Hirsuta Montipora is \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ephotosynthetic\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, meaning it receives much of its energy from light through its symbiotic zooxanthellae. It may also benefit from dissolved nutrients and fine particulate foods in the water column.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePRIMARY DIET\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePhotosynthesis:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Moderate to high reef lighting provides much of the coral’s energy.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBroadcast Feeding:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e The coral may capture fine particles from the water column during regular fish and coral feeding.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFine Coral Foods:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Amino acids, powdered coral foods, phytoplankton-style blends, rotifers, cyclops, and very fine suspended foods may be used carefully in established systems.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDissolved Nutrients:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Low but detectable nitrate and phosphate can help support color and growth. Avoid stripping the aquarium too aggressively.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFEEDING FREQUENCY\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDirect target feeding is usually not necessary. Broadcast feeding or general reef feeding \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1-2 times per week\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e can be beneficial if nutrients are not already high.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAvoid heavy feeding in small systems. The coral does not need a powdered-food snowstorm because someone watched one SPS video and became dangerous.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCOMPATIBILITY\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGreen Hirsuta Montipora works well in SPS-focused and mixed reef aquariums when placed with enough room, strong lighting, good flow, and protection from aggressive neighboring corals.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCOMMON TANK MATES\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFish:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Reef-safe fish such as clownfish, gobies, blennies, wrasses, tangs, cardinalfish, firefish, anthias, and other peaceful to semi-peaceful community fish.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAvoid:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Fish known to nip SPS corals, such as some angelfish, butterflyfish, filefish, puffers, and certain triggers.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInvertebrates:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Generally safe with cleaner shrimp, snails, hermit crabs, urchins, and most common reef invertebrates. Large urchins or bulldozing snails may move unsecured frags.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCoral:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Keep away from aggressive neighboring corals, especially torches, hammers, frogspawn, galaxea, favias, chalices, acans, mushrooms, and other stinging LPS.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSPS Neighbors:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Can be placed near other SPS corals with room for future growth. Watch for shading, branch contact, or competitive overgrowth as colonies mature.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShading Risk:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Branching Montipora can shade corals below or behind it as the colony thickens. Plan the surrounding space before it turns into a tiny green reef thicket.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBEHAVIORAL NOTES\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Peaceful to semi-aggressive by growth. It does not have long sweepers, but it can shade, crowd, or overgrow nearby corals.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGrowth Pattern:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Branching, bushy, knobby, or compact SPS growth with base encrusting before stronger upward growth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eColoration:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e May appear neon green, lime green, yellow-green, metallic green, teal-green, or deep fluorescent green depending on lighting, nutrients, stability, and photography conditions.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePolyp Extension:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Healthy Montipora may show small polyp extension, often more noticeable during calmer periods or after lights begin to dim.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBranch Tips:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Growing tips may appear lighter, brighter, or more delicate than older branches.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSPS Sensitivity:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e More forgiving than many Acropora, but still sensitive to rapid changes in alkalinity, salinity, nutrients, temperature, lighting, and flow.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlgae Risk:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Tissue loss or exposed skeleton can quickly become algae-covered if flow, nutrients, or stability are poor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFrag Handling:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Handle by the plug, dead skeleton, or base whenever possible. Avoid touching living tissue or fragile branch tips.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDipping:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Coral dipping before introduction is strongly recommended. Use coral-safe dips according to product directions and inspect the frag plug and base closely.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePest Awareness:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Inspect carefully for Montipora-eating nudibranchs, eggs, flatworms, algae, vermetid snails, and other hitchhikers before placing into the display.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eQuarantine:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Coral quarantine is ideal for Montipora when possible. Montipora pests are tiny, obnoxious, and very committed to ruining a perfectly good reef.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBase Encrusting:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e A healthy frag may encrust at the base before developing stronger upward branching growth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePlacement Reality:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e This coral can become a bright green SPS showpiece, but it needs space and flow. Montipora hirsuta does not simply “stay cute.” It branches, thickens, and becomes a tiny reef shrub with zoning ambitions.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003e\u003cspan\u003eACCLIMATION PROCESS\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis acclimation method helps reduce stress by gradually introducing the coral to your aquarium’s temperature, lighting, and water chemistry.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1. DIM THE LIGHTS\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTurn down aquarium lights or place the coral in a shaded lower area at first. This helps reduce stress while the coral adjusts.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003e2. FLOAT THE BAG\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFloat the sealed bag in the aquarium for \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e15-20 minutes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e to allow the temperature in the bag to equalize with the tank.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003e3. OPEN BAG, ADD CORAL TO CONTAINER\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCarefully open the bag and transfer the coral and shipping water into a clean container. Handle the coral by the plug, base, or dead skeleton rather than touching the living tissue or fragile branch tips.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003e4. ACCLIMATE USING TANK WATER\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAdd small amounts of tank water to the container every few minutes for \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e20-30 minutes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. Avoid exposing the coral tissue to air longer than necessary.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003e5. CORAL DIP\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUse a coral-safe dip according to the product instructions. Inspect carefully for Montipora pests, eggs, algae, and hitchhikers before the coral enters your aquarium.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003e6. TRANSFER CORAL TO AQUARIUM\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePlace the coral in a lower or slightly shaded SPS-safe area at first, with moderate to strong indirect flow. Discard the shipping and dip water. Do not pour shipping water or dip water into your aquarium.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003e7. LIGHT ACCLIMATE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAllow the coral to adjust gradually over several days to weeks before moving it into brighter light. Watch for coloration, tissue health, polyp extension, base encrusting, and branch growth before making major placement changes.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Summit City Coral","offers":[{"title":"3\/4\" Frag","offer_id":52103768834331,"sku":null,"price":25.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0246\/5100\/5999\/files\/IMG_9845.jpg?v=1776978110","url":"https:\/\/www.summitcitycoral.com\/products\/green-montipora-hirsuta-frag","provider":"Summit City Coral","version":"1.0","type":"link"}