Kung Pao Montipora

Kung Pao Montipora: The Fiery Red and Yellow Encruster

The Kung Pao Montipora (Montipora species) is a vibrant and highly fluorescent collector strain of Small Polyp Stony (SPS) coral. Montipora species are foundational corals in the reef hobby, known for their excellent growth rate and diverse forms.

This specific strain is named "Kung Pao" for its intense, hot coloration that is reminiscent of a spicy pepper dish. It typically features a base tissue that ranges from deep fiery red, brilliant orange, or reddish-brown. This base is dramatically contrasted by numerous, often sparse, polyps in bright neon yellow or chartreuse green. The combination of warm, dense base color and contrasting bright polyps makes it a visually striking addition.

The Kung Pao Montipora commonly grows in an encrusting or thinly plating morphology. It is considered a Moderate care SPS coral. It is generally hardier than Acropora but requires consistent water chemistry, high light, and ample water flow to maintain its rapid growth and brilliant color saturation.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: This coral is primarily Photosynthetic (deriving most energy from symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae) but is also an opportunistic Carnivore.
• Feeding: Supplemental feeding is highly beneficial for faster growth and robust polyp extension. Its small polyps readily capture fine particulate foods. Target feed 2-3 times per week with very fine foods, such as cyclops, rotifers, or commercial coral powders and amino acid solutions.
• Reef Compatibility: It is Reef Safe and generally Passive. Montipora lacks powerful sweeper tentacles. However, as a fast-encrusting coral, it can quickly grow over and shade out adjacent, slower-growing corals. Proper spacing is crucial to prevent territorial disputes via shading.
• Temperament: Peaceful toward fish and motile invertebrates, and Passive toward other corals. It should be positioned on mid-to-high rockwork where it receives High PAR lighting (250-450 PAR) and strong, non-laminar, turbulent water flow to prevent detritus buildup on its surfaces.
• Water Requirements: Requires stable parameters. The tank should be mature with very low nutrient levels (Nitrate < 5 ppm, Phosphate < 0.1 ppm). Critical parameters: Alkalinity (dKH 8.0-9.5), Calcium (400-450 ppm), and Magnesium (1300-1450 ppm).

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Montipora sp. (Specific Strain)
• Primary Common Name: Kung Pao Montipora
• Other Common Names: Kung Pao Plating Monti, Red Base Yellow Polyp Monti
• Origin: Cultured/Maricultured (Originals from the Indo-Pacific)
• Max Size: Can form large encrusting colonies/plates (12+ inches in diameter)
• Temperament: Peaceful (Passive, but fast-growing and competitive via shading)
• Diet: Photosynthetic and Carnivore (Benefits from target feeding)
• Minimum Tank Size: 40 Gallons (Established SPS or Mixed Reef)
• Reef Compatibility: Yes (Excellent, non-aggressive SPS option)
• Care Level: Moderate