Acanthastrea echinata - WYSIWYG

Acanthastrea echinata -Large 3"-4" inches - WYSIWYG item Acanthastrea echinata is a bold, fast‑encrusting LPS coral known for its razor‑sharp ridges, intense coloration, and aggressive feeding response. It’s one of the more dramatic “war corals” in the hobby, prized for its neon contrasts and ability to dominate rockwork with a spreading, armored appearance. 🌈 Identity & Appearance A. echinata has a very distinct look compared to Acan lords or micromussa species. Key visual traits: • Thick, encrusting skeleton with sharp, jagged ridges • Deep valleys between corallites • High‑contrast coloration: neon greens, oranges, reds, blues, and metallic sheens • War‑paint patterns—splashes, streaks, or ringed mouths • Small, tightly packed polyps that rarely extend far Under blues, the fluorescence is intense, especially in green and orange morphs. 🪸 Growth Pattern A. echinata grows moderately fast for an LPS, especially once established. You’ll see: • Encrusting spread over rockwork • Thick skeletal build‑up • Color intensifying with stable nutrients • Ability to cover irregular surfaces It’s a coral that can become a centerpiece or a territorial bruiser depending on placement. 💡 Lighting Requirements A. echinata prefers moderate light, though it tolerates a wide range. • PAR 80–150 is ideal • Too much light can cause bleaching or color loss • Too little light may dull its fluorescence Most morphs look their best in the mid‑range. 🌊 Flow Preferences Moderate, indirect flow works best. • Enough movement to keep detritus off the ridges • Avoid direct, blasting flow that irritates tissue • Stable, rhythmic flow helps maintain polyp health 🍤 Feeding & Nutrition A. echinata is a voracious feeder with a strong nighttime feeding response. It accepts: • Mysis • Brine • Reef plankton • LPS pellets • Meaty blends Feeding 1–2× weekly boosts growth and coloration. ⚔️ Aggression & Spacing This coral is notorious for aggression. • Long, powerful sweeper tentacles • Can damage nearby LPS, softies, and even some SPS • Needs 2–4 inches of buffer space It’s one of the more territorial LPS species, so placement matters. 🧪 Water Parameters & Hardiness A. echinata is fairly hardy once settled. It prefers: • Stable alkalinity • Moderate nutrients (NO₃ 5–15 ppm, PO₄ 0.03–0.1 ppm) • Clean but not sterile water • Consistent temperature and flow It’s more tolerant than many LPS but still sensitive to sudden swings. ⭐ Why Hobbyists Love It • Insane fluorescence under blues • Aggressive, armored look unlike other LPS • Fast encrusting growth • High contrast patterns that stand out in any tank • Great for lower rockwork or shaded mid‑zones