Micromussa lordhowensis – Acan Coral

Micromussa lordhowensis, known among hobbyists as Acan coral or Acan lord, is a popular LPS coral in reef aquariums. The species was formerly known as Acanthastrea lordhowensis, which is why it is still often simply referred to as “Acan” by hobbyists.

The coral forms shallow coral colonies where individual polyps are clearly distinguishable and round. Each polyp has a mouth in the center surrounded by thick tissue that can swell considerably under good conditions or during feeding.

Micromussa lordhowensis is particularly known for its spectacular color patterns. Color variations are wide-ranging, with shades including turquoise, red, orange, green, and purple, as well as various multi-colored combinations. In this color morph, the coral combines turquoise and red hues that can fluoresce strongly under blue aquarium lighting.

In a reef aquarium, Micromussa generally thrives at the bottom or middle level of the aquarium, where lighting is low to moderate and flow is gentle. Under good conditions, the polyps expand, and the coral grows new polyps around its edges, forming a larger colony over time.

Features

• LPS coral colony formed by round polyps
• known for strong and contrasting colors
• polyps can swell considerably during feeding
• grows as new polyps form at the edges of the colony
• often strong fluorescence under blue lighting

Care Requirements

Good to know

Micromussa lordhowensis often responds well to targeted feeding with, for example, mysis shrimp or other small meaty foods. Feeding can accelerate growth and help the coral form new polyps.

Suitability

• well suited for reef aquariums
• generally compatible with fish and invertebrates
• also suitable for beginners, provided lighting is not too strong