Mystic Sunset Montipora

Mystic Sunset Montipora: The Glowing Orange and Yellow Plate

The Mystic Sunset Montipora (Montipora species) is a highly fluorescent and immensely popular collector strain of Small Polyp Stony (SPS) coral. Montipora species are foundational corals in the reef hobby, recognized for their hardiness and attractive growth forms.

This specific strain is named "Mystic Sunset" for its beautiful, gradient coloration reminiscent of a vibrant evening sky. It typically features a base tissue that ranges from bright sunset orange to deep red or reddish-brown. The surface is densely dotted with numerous, brightly colored polyps in neon yellow or electric green. The contrast between the warm base and the neon polyps gives the coral an intense, shimmering glow.

The Mystic Sunset Montipora commonly grows in an encrusting or thinly plating morphology, quickly forming broad, overlapping layers. 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/plating coral, it can quickly grow over and shade out adjacent, slower-growing corals. Proper spacing is essential 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: Mystic Sunset Montipora
• Other Common Names: Sunset Montipora, Orange 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