Montipora capricornis (Purple Plating)

The purple form of Montipora capricornis offers the same forgiving, fast-growing plate growth habit as the orange variant in a stunning deep purple colouration that glows under reef lighting. Like its orange sibling, it is one of the most recommended first SPS corals for hobbyists building their first reef system. Plates layer over each other attractively and can be used to create striking aquascape compositions.

Medium-high PAR (150–300). Moderate to strong flow. Alk 8–10 dKH, Ca 400–450 ppm, temp 24–27°C. Tolerant of moderate nutrient levels. Do not allow plates to grow against the glass or onto sand without clear space underneath — anaerobic dead zones develop. Frag easily — snap plate segments and glue to frag plugs. One of the most beginner-friendly SPS corals available.