When hobbyists and researchers want to move SPS (Staghorn, Elkhorn, and Brain Coral) corals from one environment to another, acclimating the coral is crucial for its survival and growth in the new environment. Acclimating coral involves gradually exposing it to a new environment, allowing it to adjust to different water parameters such as temperature, salinity, pH, and light intensity. Failure to properly acclimate corals can result in stress, bleaching, and even death.
To successfully acclimate SPS corals, hobbyists must monitor water parameters closely and take steps to gradually adjust the coral to the new environment. For example, if you are moving a coral colony from a cooler water temperature to a warmer one, you may need to slowly increase the water temperature by a few degrees each day until it reaches the desired temperature. Similarly, if you are moving a coral colony from a high-light to low-light environment, you may need to gradually reduce light intensity over time.
Dr. Steve Palumbi, a marine biologist at Stanford University, emphasizes the importance of following best practices and monitoring water parameters during acclimation for coral survival in the face of climate change and other environmental stressors. Coral reefs are under threat from rising ocean temperatures, acidification, pollution, and overfishing, among other factors, and proper care and attention during the acclimation process can help ensure that SPS corals survive and contribute to a healthy and vibrant reef ecosystem.
The Coral Reef Alliance’s "Coral Triangle Project" involves protecting and restoring coral reefs in Southeast Asia by acclimating and transplanting healthy coral, successfully restoring degraded reef environments and supporting local communities that rely on the reef for their livelihoods. Proper care and attention during the acclimation process can help SPS corals thrive and contribute to a diverse and resilient reef ecosystem. By following best practices and monitoring water parameters closely, hobbyists can ensure that their SPS corals are well-acclimated to their new environment and ready to flourish in their new home.
