{"product_id":"chili-pepper-montipora-1","title":"Chili Pepper Montipora","description":"\u003cp\u003eChili Pepper Montipora is a popular variety of encrusting SPS coral, sought after for its striking color combination. It belongs to the Montipora genus, a diverse group known for its many growth forms and colors. This particular type is a great way for reefers to add a splash of vibrant, contrasting color to their rockwork.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe main characteristic of Chili Pepper Montipora is its bright green base coloration, which is densely covered with contrasting brilliant red to reddish-orange polyps. It typically grows in an encrusting fashion, covering live rock and other surfaces. As the colony matures, it may develop semi-plating layers or whorls, creating an interesting and complex structure within the aquarium. This growth pattern makes it a visually engaging species over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProper care for this coral requires attention to stability, a hallmark of SPS husbandry. It thrives in moderate to high lighting conditions, ideally in a PAR range of 200-350. Water flow should be moderate to strong to keep the surface of the coral clean from detritus and to ensure nutrients are delivered. Placement is best in the middle to upper third of the tank where it can receive adequate light and flow. While primarily photosynthetic, it benefits from broadcast feeding of fine particulate foods like phytoplankton or specialized SPS coral food. Maintain stable water parameters, with calcium around 400-450 ppm, alkalinity at 8-12 dKH, and magnesium between 1250-1350 ppm. This coral is generally peaceful but will encrust over its neighbors, so provide at least a few inches of space for it to grow. Acclimation should be done slowly, and the coral should be introduced to high light gradually to prevent bleaching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the hobbyist with a stable reef environment, the Chili Pepper Montipora is an excellent addition. Its steady growth and exceptional color provide a rewarding experience and a dynamic visual contrast against other corals in a well-maintained SPS or mixed reef system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) item. The item you will receive is the exact coral pictured.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Eastern Marine Aquariums","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42248901558327,"sku":"EMA-SPS-20260528-1SLF","price":120.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1849\/1739\/files\/dfc2180d-8809-4dca-b152-637137006731-_MG_3973.png?v=1779992562","url":"https:\/\/easternmarineaquariums.co.nz\/products\/chili-pepper-montipora-1","provider":"EasternMarine Aquariums","version":"1.0","type":"link"}