Table Coral

About

Found on protected upper and lower reef slopes and inter-reef channels across the Indo-Pacific, Acropora valenciennesi is one of the larger members of its genus, with colonies capable of exceeding two metres across in the wild. The growth form is immediately recognizable: wide-spreading horizontal branches fuse together into a broad, table-like structure, with each branch tipped by a pointed, upturned end. What really catches the eye on a close look is the uniformity. Branches are evenly spaced and consistent in shape, and the radial corallites run in neat rows along each one, giving the whole colony a precise, almost engineered appearance. Coloration tends to run through earthy browns mixed with blues and greens, with the branch tips noticeably paler. In the aquarium this is a challenging coral best left to experienced reefers with mature, stable systems. It demands intense lighting and vigorous water movement that mimics the brisk flow of the reef channels it occupies naturally. Fragmentation is possible but this species grows slowly and takes time to settle after being moved or fragged. Give it generous space. This is a coral that wants to spread, and cramped conditions will lead to aggression issues with neighbors long before it reaches anything close to its natural size.