Toxic Red Acan Bowerbanki

Acanthastrea bowerbanki, often simply called Acan Bowerbanki, is an LPS coral that brings a substantial, chunky presence to the reef aquarium. They are cherished for their large, fleshy polyps and vibrant colours, making them a popular choice for reef keepers looking to add a robust and eye-catching specimen. This particular piece displays a striking red colouration, living up to its "Toxic Red" designation. This specimen measures approximately 6cm. Though often less common than some other Acan species, the Bowerbanki makes a truly impressive display when happy. Often mistaken for Micromussa lordhowensis (Acan lords), you can distinguish the Bowerbanki by its larger individual corallites and more robust structure. Its colouration is a deep, rich red. These corals exhibit their polyps readily, adding dynamic movement and a captivating texture to your reef. They tend to grow in an encrusting or mounding formation, slowly expanding their colony over rockwork. Caring for Acan Bowerbanki is generally straightforward, making them accessible to a wide range of aquarists. They thrive under moderate lighting, ideally between 75-150 PAR, and prefer moderate, indirect water flow to keep detritus from settling on their polyps without causing tissue irritation. Placement in the lower to mid-regions of the aquarium is usually best. While zooxanthellate, they benefit greatly from target feeding meaty foods like mysis shrimp or brine shrimp a few times a week, especially after lights out. Consistent water parameters are key: calcium 400-440 ppm, alkalinity 8-10 dKH, and magnesium 1300-1400 ppm. Ensure ample space around your Acan Bowerbanki, as they can extend mesenterial filaments at night to digest nearby corals. They appreciate a slow acclimation to new tank conditions, particularly regarding lighting. Acan Bowerbanki can form a stunning centrepiece or a significant component of a mixed reef display. Their substantial polyps and vibrant red hues create a focal point that draws the eye and adds depth to the aquascape. They pair well with other LPS corals, provided adequate spacing is maintained.

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

Please note that colours can look slightly different in person than in photos, depending on your lighting and screen, and the size given is an approximate guide measured at the time of listing.

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.