Forest Fire Digitata Coral

Forest Fire Digitata Coral

Species: Montipora digitata

 

Growth Form:
Branching SPS coral with finger-like projections that grow upward and outward. Forms dense clusters as it matures and can quickly fill space in a reef aquarium.

 

Coloration:
Bright orange to red base with vibrant neon green polyps, creating a high-contrast “forest fire” effect. Colors intensify under stable parameters and proper lighting.

 

Temperament:
Peaceful.
Lacks aggressive sweeper tentacles but should be spaced appropriately to prevent shading or overgrowth onto neighboring corals.

 

Tank Size:
20 gallons and up.
Best suited for stable, established reef aquariums.

 

Placement:
Middle to upper levels of the aquarium.
Requires adequate space for vertical and outward branching growth.

 

Lighting:
Moderate to High lighting.
Stronger lighting enhances coloration and promotes faster growth.

 

Flow:
Moderate to High flow.
Prefers random, turbulent flow to keep the surface clean and promote healthy polyp extension.

 

Diet:
Photosynthetic (Zooxanthellae)

 

Feeding:
Primarily relies on light for energy but benefits from occasional feedings of fine particulate foods such as reef roids, phytoplankton, or amino acids.

 

Reef Safe:
Yes

 

Care Level:
Moderate.
Considered a good entry-level SPS coral due to its relative hardiness compared to other small polyp stony corals.

 

Ideal Parameters:

Salinity: 1.025–1.026
Temperature: 76–80°F
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–9 dKH
Calcium: 400–450 ppm
Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
Nitrates: 2–10 ppm
Phosphates: 0.02–0.08 ppm
Stable parameters recommended

 

Fun Fact:
Forest Fire Digitata is known for its fast growth, and under ideal conditions it can quickly develop into a dense branching colony, making it a favorite for reef keepers looking to add both color and structure to their tank.