Staghorn Coral

About

Found on upper reef slopes across the Indo-Pacific, Acropora listeri is one of the more visually variable corals in its genus, making identification a genuine challenge even for experienced reef keepers. Its growth form shifts considerably depending on water movement. Colonies in surge-heavy, wave-washed zones tend to develop tapered, compact branches, while those in calmer spots grow into irregular clumps or corymbose plates with branches that vary widely in length and shape. Some branch tips carry one or more distinct axial corallites, while others lack them entirely. The radial corallites themselves are irregularly arranged, often immersed to tubular with narrow, slit-like openings and pointed rims that give the colony a somewhat rough, textured appearance. Coloration is understated, cream to brown, which means this isn't a coral people keep for vivid pigmentation. In the wild it occupies fairly shallow water, typically between 3 and 15 meters. In the aquarium, this is a species firmly in advanced territory. It demands intense lighting and vigorous, turbulent flow that mimics its natural wave-exposed environment. Acropora listeri is not a forgiving coral if conditions slip, and it should be kept by those already comfortable managing demanding SPS systems.