Purple Hammer Coral

The Purple Hammer Coral is a stunning addition to any reef aquarium, renowned for its vibrant coloration and flowing polyps. Its distinctive hammer-shaped tips gently sway in the current, creating an mesmerizing display. The rich purple hues provide a striking contrast against other corals, making it a focal point in your aquascape. Each head can grow quite large, so ensure ample space for expansion. This coral is a beautiful and relatively peaceful inhabitant for a mature reef tank.

Hammer corals thrive under moderate PAR levels, typically ranging from 75 to 150. Too much light can cause bleaching, while too little can lead to dull coloration and recession. Moderate, indirect flow is ideal, allowing the polyps to extend fully and gently sway without being blasted directly. Placement in the middle to upper regions of the tank, securely attached to rockwork, is generally recommended. Ensure it is placed away from aggressive corals as its sweeping tentacles can sting neighboring inhabitants.

While primarily photosynthetic, Hammer corals benefit from supplemental feeding. Offer small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, or specialized coral foods once or twice a week. Target feeding during daylight hours or after lights out can encourage optimal growth and vibrant coloration. Maintain stable water parameters: temperature 75-78°F, salinity 1.025-1.026, alkalinity 8-10 dKH, calcium 400-450 ppm, and magnesium 1300-1400 ppm. Consistent water quality is key to their long-term health.

Acclimation should be done slowly using a drip acclimation method over at least an hour to minimize stress. Observe for signs of stress or irritation during the first few days. Gentle handling is crucial as the fleshy polyps can be easily damaged. This coral is generally peaceful but its sweeping tentacles can sting nearby corals, so provide adequate spacing, especially around less aggressive species.

The Purple Hammer Coral is an excellent choice for both intermediate and advanced reef keepers looking for a captivating and relatively forgiving LPS coral. Its gorgeous coloration and dynamic movement will enhance the beauty and diversity of your reef ecosystem, providing years of enjoyment.

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.