Acropora spawning

Amphiprion

Contain the Excitement...
Feb 14, 2007
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Mobile, Alabama
Real Name
Andrew
Well, one of my relatively new frags, an Acropora "millepora" (could be one or two other species) began showing bulging, white polyps. After observing for a bit longer, it began literally popping eggs out. The first thing that goes through my mind is, "okay, this doesn't usually happen unless the corals are stressed." So basically, I have been racking my mind to find out what the deal is. Nothing has been changed on my part, all tests come out like usual, temps and salinity in range, etc. All powerheads are working properly, etc. All other corals and animals look great. I also noticed that we are very close to a full moon (or may have already had one or something--I don't keep track). Otherwise, I am at a loss as to what would cause it to suddenly spawn. Keep in mind that it is only this Acropora, not the other two pieces I have, which also look fine.
 
it doesn't necessarily mean it is stressed. It is usually a good sign with acros. However, since you said it is new, it just might be getting acclimated. And the full moon probably wouldn't affect it unless your tank is getting moonlight. But even still, they really aren't exactly sure how the moon cycle affects the corals. But most spawnings occur 2-3 nights after a full moon in July.
I wouldn't worry about it if the coral looks fine. I deddddefinitely would have taken pictures though!!! I've never heard that happening in a tank less than 800 gallons or so. Haha.
And it is strange that the others didn't, because it usually causes the others to release also. They probably just weren't ready to for whatever reason so even with the eggs in the water, they had nothing to release...
But I would love to see some pictures if you have any. :)
 
It's already finished :(, so no pics--I am kicking myself for not taking any (if there is a next time, I definitely will). I've had the Acro placed for just over a month, so it is the most established of all of them. I'd really, really like to think it was because my tank is doing so well, but for some reason, I don't think that's the case, lol. That is one reason why I am skeptical--I haven't heard of too many spawning events in corals in average aquaria that didn't involve some sort of stressor. That is why I am trying to find out what, if any change occured. Also, I am not entirely sure it is the actual moonlight that the corals are able to sense--like some birds, etc., it may be some sort of electromagnetic "sense." Anyway, I'm not complaining by any means--just making sure there isn't going to be an imminent crash or something (if you can't tell, I am now paranoid about these sorts of things).
 
It's already finished :(, so no pics-

well then, I don't believe you... :P
And as far as spawning, I don't think it is all light either, althought i have talked to someone at an aquarium who has said that is how he gets them to do it. i would guess more that it is the increase in flow and temperature. But once again, I don't believe it is entirely known yet...
 
well then, I don't believe you... :P
And as far as spawning, I don't think it is all light either, althought i have talked to someone at an aquarium who has said that is how he gets them to do it. i would guess more that it is the increase in flow and temperature. But once again, I don't believe it is entirely known yet...

It's ok, I don't blame you for not believing me :liar:. I am REALLY kicking myself for not taking pics :headshake2:--especially if it never happens again. Oh well.

Anyway, I agree. I don't think anyone really knows. It may be partially related to light, but I think there is probably more than one environmental cue, as you alluded. I do know people who house their tanks in a spot that receives full moonlight (also people who use "solatubes" and also get moonlight), but they don't really get spawns--at least not mass spawnings. Then there's my anemone, which spawns regardless of any cosmic phase. I think her cue to spawn is when I go on vacation. :headbang2:
 
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