Metallic Bronze Hammer Coral

The Hammer Coral, Fimbriaphyllia ancora, is one of the most recognisable large polyp stony corals in the reef-keeping hobby. It has been a mainstay in home aquariums for decades for good reason, bringing graceful movement and structure to the reef. This particular branching variety displays a lovely metallic bronze sheen over its base colouration.

In a home reef, the branching Hammer Coral grows from a calcified base, forming new heads over time. Each polyp is tipped with a distinctive T-shaped or hammer-like vesicle. These polyps gently sway in the current, creating a dynamic display. Under aquarium lighting, the bronze colour develops a subtle metallic finish that can appear to shift as the viewing angle changes. Its tentacles extend during the day and retract slightly at night.

A stable environment is key for any Hammer Coral. They prefer moderate lighting, with PAR levels around 100 to 150 being a safe target. A low to moderate, indirect water flow is ideal to keep the polyps moving without forcing them back against the coral's skeleton. For water parameters, aim for calcium between 420-440 ppm, alkalinity at 8-9 dKH, and magnesium around 1300-1400 ppm. While photosynthetic, they do appreciate occasional target feeding with small meaty foods. Hammer corals are known for their sweeper tentacles, which can extend several centimetres at night, so be sure to give them ample space—at least 10cm—from their neighbours.

The steady, branching growth of a Hammer Coral makes it a great choice for adding vertical structure to a mixed reef. As it grows, it creates interesting nooks for fish and invertebrates to explore. Its care requirements are straightforward for an LPS coral, making it accessible to anyone who can maintain stable reef parameters.

This is a WYSIWYG item, so you'll receive the exact specimen pictured.

We take livestock seriously. That's why we don't sell anything we wouldn't be comfortable putting in our own tank.

As we are direct from source, we import and sell direct to the public. This means you can buy with confidence knowing EMA prides itself on excellent handling and conditioning protocols.

Fish

All our fish held in a quarantine system for a minimum of 3 weeks. During this time, regular water changes are performed, and twice daily (or sometimes more) feedings are performed.

Copper is dosed and checked twice a day for ich and velvet.

During this treatment fish are given formalin baths for brooklynella and a minimum of 3 praziquantel doses is performed for flukes.

Coral

Our coral is quarantined for a minimum of 3 weeks, just like fish. During this time, regular water changes are performed, water testing done, and once a month a Fauna Marin ICP Total is performed.

Corals are inspected for pests/general health and are provided with a pest dip once a week for at least 3 weeks.

If we see signs of pests, the quarantine period is extended and/or additional dips are performed

If coral is bleached/unhealthy, it will remain in quarantine until healthy enough to sell.