Posts

What attracts advanced reef aquarists to SPS Coral?

Image
SPS Coral. Any reef aquarium enthusiast knows that SPS reef tanks include some of the most desirable coral invertebrates available. Celebrated for their complex skeletons and vibrant hues, SPS coral  brings a dimension of architectural appeal and visual interest to reef aquariums. But they are also unforgivingly beautiful and expect precision and experience.  What is so attractive about the SPS coral is its opportunity to be very colourful and grow quite rapidly under proper conditions. These corals rely on stable levels of calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium to develop and maintain their structure. High water movement and bright lights, generally metal halides or higher-end LEDs, are also required. These are laminar flow rates that simulate the shallow reef crests where SPS coral are found.   Unlike the more lenient soft coral,  SPS coral does not take well to changes in temperature and water chemistry. That’s why experienced hobbyists who have already conquered easi...

Creating vibrant reefs from the ground up

Image
The desire to keep corals in Canada is not what it used to be, evolving far beyond being the purview of niche hobbyists to a mainstream, thriving component of the marine aquarium sector. Aquacultured specimens and community-based know-how have made the reef aquarium hobby more accessible, even in the coldest places where naturally growing coral will never reach. While corals are available in Canada, it's crucial to run a tight ship when balancing your tank's requirements with the needs of the species you're interested in. More often than not, hobbyists will start with softies for their ability to withstand the nature of our hobby, then move up to LPS and SPS as experience is gained. Each group boasts different colours, textures and growth patterns to enable aquarists to create their underwater masterpiece.   The availability of sustainably harvested corals, especially in Canada, is improving thanks to a network of dedicated online stores and coral swaps in the reefing comm...

Light up outdoor spaces with coral torches

Image
Coral torches in Canada   are now considered the ideal way to create a warm, flickering ambiance outside. These torches were created specifically to provide an elegant source of ambient light and heat that can spice up an exotic evening out on the patio or entertain on the balcony. The bright coral colour of their bodies provides a stunning and photogenic contrast in an outdoor setting. Flexibility: One thing that makes coral torches good withers is the fact that they are flexible. They would be perfect for any backyard or garden party, or even as a feature at a wedding or casual evening supper and can easily be hung from a ceiling hook or tree branch or placed on a plateau. These torches aren’t like regular torches; they provide a decorative value as much as a functional one. A lot of models also come with eco-friendly fuel options that have a cleaner, safer burn, something that ’ s particularly important outdoors.   These Canadian torches are quite easy to care for and add v...

SPS coral on the menu: The colourful world of SPS coral for reef tanks

Image
  SPS coral in Canada  has rapidly become the top choice for reef aquarists seeking vibrant colors and dynamic structures in their tanks. These Small Polyp Stony (SPS) corals are known for their hard skeletons made of calcium and a kaleidoscope of colors, from electric blues to fiery reds. Similar to the play of the tank (bird's nests being among the most popular), these intricate branching structures are a centerpiece of many advanced reef systems. What makes SPS coral, especially in the Canadian waterscape, very different is its requirement of precise water chemistry and strong lighting. They must keep calcium, alkalinity and magnesium stable, to ensure that the temperature is stable and to make sure the water flow is optimal. This means that SPS coral in Canada is better for the more experienced aquarist, but the rewards are definitely worth the effort. With the increasing popularity of reef keeping worldwide, domestic suppliers are carrying a wider range of SPS coral than ...

Features of hammer coral that make them so unique

Image
  One of the most beautiful corals for reef aquariums is the hammer coral. The Canadian Hobbyist will love the medium-light polyps and moderate care of this LPS coral in their reef setup. Water parameters are the single most important aspect of keeping hammer coral here in Canada . These corals are adapted to somewhat non-variable environments and moderate light conditions with a mild to moderate water active movement. They depend on photosynthesis and supplemental feeding, so high-quality marine foods such as phytoplankton or amino acid supplements can boost their growth and coloration. Another important consideration is the placement of hammer coral in a reef tank. It should be placed somewhere where it has plenty of room to spread out without coming into contact with other corals since it has long, flowing tentacles. This avoids aggressive, stinging interactions that might damage neighboring species. In Canada, buying hammer coral is no different; it's important to buy from ethi...

Essential Information For Prolific Reef Workers: This Guide Covers SPS Coral Care

Image
  Patterned SPS coral is a sought-after species for any reef tank due to its stunning colours and elaborate growth patterns. Special Challenges and Rewards for Canadian Reefers with SPS Coral If you know how to care for them, the right water parameters, or where to find them. Through October, follow along with a well-known Canadian SPS Coral expert who received the title Canadian Tank of the Year in 2021. The most important factor for keeping coral, particularly in Canada, is having stable water. These corals are demanding regarding high-intensity lighting, water flow, calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium levels. Maintaining consistent tank temps with a quality heater or chiller is essential, particularly with extreme seasons in Canada. Finding healthy specimens is another critical factor. As I said, tons of reef stores in Canada specialize in sustainably harvested SPS coral, but just like in the United States, they are all top-quality reef-safe products. Moreover, online retailers ...

SPS Coral: What Makes Them So Attractive and How to Care For Them

Image
Small Polyp,Stony coral, or SPS coral, is an extraordinary candidate for your reef aquarium, admired for its brilliant colors and fascinating growth forms. They are a common choice for advanced aquarists, as they are both beautiful and can take dedication and know-how to master. SPS coral  in Canada  comes from nutrient-poor, sun bathed areas so they flourish in stable parameters and high light areas. Their vibrant colors—from neon greens and blues to deep purples and reds—are due to their symbiotic relationship with the zooxanthellae algae that live in their tissues. That partnership needs bright lighting, typically LED or T5 fixtures, that mimics sunlight and promotes plant growth. SPS corals are very particular about their conditions. These corals require a precise balance of calcium, alkalinity and magnesium to create their solid skeletons. Equally important is a strong, steady flow of water, which helps ferry nutrients and whisk away waste. Regular testing and dosing are ...