Gold Hammer Coral Frag

Gold Hammer Coral Frag

 

Common Name:

Gold Hammer Coral

Scientific Name:

Euphyllia ancora / Euphyllia parancora

Origin:

Indo-Pacific region, commonly found in protected reef slopes and lagoons

Growth Form:

Branching or wall-form (depending on variety); develops fleshy, hammer-shaped polyps that sway gently in the current

Coloration:

Rich golden to yellow tentacles, often accented with subtle green or lime hues and contrasting lighter tips under strong reef lighting

Tank Requirements

Tank Size:

Minimum 30 gallons recommended; larger systems provide increased stability and room for polyp extension

Placement:

Mid to lower regions of the aquarium on stable rockwork or coral platforms
Allow ample spacing from neighboring corals due to extended sweeper tentacles

Lighting:

Moderate lighting preferred (PAR 100–180)
Too much direct light may cause polyp retraction or bleaching, while insufficient light can reduce coloration

Water Flow:

Low to moderate, indirect flow
Flow should cause a gentle swaying motion; avoid strong, direct currents that may damage tissue

Feeding & Nutrition

Diet:

Primarily photosynthetic via symbiotic zooxanthellae
Benefits from supplemental feedings

Feeding Recommendations:

Target feed 1–2 times per week with small meaty foods such as:

• Reef Roids

• Benepets Coral Food

• Mysis shrimp or finely chopped seafood

Feeding can promote faster growth, improved coloration, and stronger polyp extension

Water Parameters

• Temperature: 24–26°C (75–79°F)

• Salinity: 1.025–1.026 SG

• pH: 8.1–8.4

• Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH

• Calcium: 400–450 ppm

• Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm

Stable parameters are critical, as hammer corals are sensitive to rapid swings

Behavior & Compatibility

Temperament:

Semi-aggressive
Extends long sweeper tentacles, especially at night, which can sting nearby corals

Compatibility:

Compatible with most peaceful reef inhabitants
Can be placed near other Euphyllia species, but spacing is recommended to prevent aggression unless they are known to be compatible

Care Level:

Moderate
Well-suited for reef keepers with some experience or beginners willing to maintain stable water parameters

Propagation & Growth

Gold Hammer Corals grow steadily under proper conditions and can be fragged once well established. Branching varieties are especially suitable for fragging, making them popular in reef aquariums.

Fun Fact:

Hammer corals can recognize and tolerate other Euphyllia of the same species, sometimes forming beautiful mixed colonies — but they’ll aggressively defend their space against most other corals!