Green Hammer Coral: A Flowing Masterpiece of Neon Green
Add elegance and movement to your reef aquarium with the stunning Green Hammer Coral. This iconic Large Polyp Stony (LPS) coral, also known as Euphyllia ancora or anchor coral, is a longtime favorite among reefers for its mesmerizing, flowing tentacles and brilliant neon green coloration. Each polyp features sweeping, hammer- or anchor-shaped tips that sway gracefully in the current, creating a dynamic, mesmerizing display that brings your aquascape to life. Under actinic lighting, the green fluorescence intensifies, making this coral a true showpiece that commands attention from every angle.
Aquacultured for Superior Hardiness
This frag is 100% aquacultured, meaning it has been propagated and raised in a controlled captive environment. This process yields corals that are significantly hardier, more disease-resistant, and better adapted to the conditions of home reef aquariums than wild-collected specimens. You will receive a healthy, established frag with multiple heads, securely attached to a frag plug and ready for introduction to your system.
Ideal for Intermediate Reefers
The Green Hammer Coral is well-suited for aquarists with some experience in maintaining stable LPS systems. While it is considered one of the more forgiving Euphyllia species, it requires stable water parameters, moderate lighting, and gentle flow to thrive. Its relatively hardy nature makes it a popular choice for hobbyists looking to add a flowing, colorful centerpiece to their reef.
Lighting & Flow
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Lighting: Thrives under low to moderate lighting (T5, LED, or metal halide). For optimal growth and color development, an ideal PAR range of 100–200 is recommended. Avoid intense, direct lighting, as this can cause the coral to retract or bleach. Gradual acclimation to your lighting is recommended.
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Water Flow: Prefers low to moderate, indirect water flow. Gentle, intermittent flow will allow the sweeping tentacles to extend fully and sway naturally without being battered. Avoid direct, high-velocity flow, which can cause the polyps to retract and stress the coral.
Placement & Growth
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Placement: Best placed in the lower to middle zones of your aquascape, where it can receive adequate light and gentle flow. Provide ample space between this coral and other corals, as Hammer corals possess sweeper tentacles that can extend and sting neighboring corals, especially at night. A sandy substrate or low rock placement is ideal.
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Growth Rate: Green Hammer Coral is a moderate grower. Under optimal conditions with stable parameters and occasional feeding, you can expect new heads to develop regularly. A small frag will gradually grow into a beautiful, branching colony that adds elegance and movement to your reef.
Feeding & Nutrition
While Hammer corals derive a significant portion of their energy from photosynthesis through their symbiotic zooxanthellae, they will benefit greatly from supplemental feeding. Target feeding with small meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, reef roids, or marine snow once or twice per week can promote faster growth, healthier tissue, and more vibrant coloration. Feed in the evening when the coral's feeding tentacles are most extended.
Recommended Water Parameters
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Temperature: 76–80°F (stability is critical)
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Salinity: 1.024–1.026 (stable)
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
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Calcium: 400–450 ppm
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Magnesium: 1250–1350 ppm
A Timeless Classic for Any Reef
The Green Hammer Coral is a timeless classic that delivers exceptional beauty, graceful movement, and vibrant color. Its flowing tentacles and brilliant neon green hue make it a standout piece that will impress every viewer. Whether you are expanding an existing LPS collection or adding a centerpiece to a new reef, this coral is a rewarding and stunning choice. Add this living masterpiece to your tank today and enjoy its elegant dance for years to come.
Important Handling Note: Always wear gloves and eye protection when handling corals. Hammer corals possess stinging sweeper tentacles that can damage neighboring corals; provide ample space and handle with care. Euphyllia corals are also known to be sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters and should be acclimated slowly.