Montipora is a genus of small-polyped stony corals and with currently 85 described species the second most species-rich genus of corals after Acropora. Their natural range extends over the entire Indo-Pacific. Because of their small polyps they are also called pore coral. There are different growth forms, which can also occur mixed depending on species and habitat, from encrusting over the substrate to leaf- to mushroom-shaped staggered pagoda or branch-shaped structures. The exact identification of species is, as with many other corals, not perfectly possible on the live animal, because it requires a microscopic examination of the skeleton. It is also difficult to distinguish them from the very similar Porites species, since they differ only in the skeletal structure of their corallites.
Montipora are generally less demanding than other small-polyp stony corals. They still require tighter control of water values than LPS or soft coral, but among the SPS they are well suited as the first SPS for beginners or as the first SPS when stocking the aquarium. They also generally require less light than Acropora and can tolerate slightly higher nutrient levels. It is also especially important to have a strong current to prevent sediment from settling on their tissue. Popular color forms are for example Montipora "Rainbow", Montipora "Superman", Montipora digitata "Forest Fire" or Montipora samarensis "Bubble Gum".
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