Do those sparkling SPS corals reside in your reef tank? Although they are wonderful, they are subject to illness just like humans. Don't be concerned; this guide will prepare you to be a fighter to protect their health!

Why Do SPS Corals Get Sick?

You can think of it like this -  

Tiny Invaders – Bacteria and parasites can attack SPS corals. It can make them lose tissue or turn colours.  

Unhappy Environment - Bad water quality and wrong lighting can stress the coral. Water temperature swings can do the same. And it makes it easier to get sick.   

Tank Trouble - The corals fighting for space or aggressive tank mates can weaken your SPS.

1. Spotting Sickness Early - Be a Coral CSI

Catching a disease early is key to saving your coral. Here is what to watch for:  

Losing the Battle – RTM - Rapid Tissue Necrosis shows white or brown spots. It also makes the coral to lose tissue fast.   

Brown Goo Alert - A slimy brown film on the SPS corals in Canada means a bacterial infection.   

Red Plague on the Rise - Reddish-brown patches spreading? This aggressive disease needs action!  

White Plague Too – It is similar to the Red Plague but white instead. Not a good sign!

2. Prevention is Power - Building a Coral Paradise

The best way to fight disease is to stop it from happening! Here is how to create a healthy haven for your SPS -  

New Arrivals on Hold – You should keep new corals separate before introducing them to the main tank. This stops diseases from spreading.   

Clean Water is Happy Water: You must change water regularly, and good filtration for things like pH and nutrients are important for clean water.   

Lighting the Way - Give your SPS corals the right amount and type of light they need. You must research their needs and adjust your lighting system.   

Glide with the current - You can use powerheads or wavemakers to mimic natural currents for good water flow. It helps remove waste and brings nutrients.   

A Bit More To Eat - Some SPS corals benefit from special liquid or paste foods and the nutrients they get from algae.

3. Taking Action When Sickness Strikes

Even with prevention, sometimes your SPS corals in Canada might get sick. Here is what to do -  

Isolating the Patient – You must immediately move the sick coral to a separate tank to stop the disease from spreading.  

Identify the Enemy – You can use clear pictures and online resources. Or you can even consult experienced aquarists to figure out what disease your coral has.   

Be Patient - Healing takes time. You need to keep an eye on your coral after treatment. And you must adjust your approach as needed. Don't give up!

Winding Up

You can create an environment where your stunning SPS corals can flourish and thrive. And it can even bring beautiful colour to your reef tank with a bit of care and these tips. You can contact us at Frag Garage for any further assistance.

Kevin Astle is the author of this article. To know more details about Coral Torches in Canada please visit our website: fraggarage.ca