Branching Hammer corals (Euphyllia ancora or fimbriata) are hardy, fast-growing LPS corals that thrive in stable reef tanks with low-to-moderate light and should be placed with ample space to avoid stinging neighbors. Key Care Requirements: Lighting: Moderate light. They can be placed on the lower-middle of the reef. Too much light can cause stress, while too little may slow growth. Flow: Low to moderate, indirect flow is essential. The tentacles should sway gently, not thrash. Excessive flow can cause tissue damage and recession. Water Quality: Stable parameters are paramount. Placement & Spacing: Give them inches of space from other corals, as they have sweeper tentacles. Feeding: While photosynthetic, they benefit from occasional target feeding of meaty foods (mysis shrimp) or reef roids, which can promote faster growth. Health Indicators: A healthy hammer has a thick, full, and extended polyp structure covering the skeleton. Branching hammers are excellent for beginners in established tanks and can be fragmented once they grow large.
