No polyp extension in encrusting monti

[reefnewbie83177]

Hi all,
I have an encrusting monti that I purchased about 6 weeks ago. I don't know the name, but it is kind of a pearly white/lavender color with baby blue polyps. It seem to be doing well, and was starting to encrust quite nicely. Anyway, the last 24 hours I have noticed that there are no polyps. usually, even during the day I see little blue polyps, but they don't normally come out fully until the evening. I was just wondering if monti's can do this some time. all other acro's are fine with great polyp extension. I have a monti capitata as well that is doing great. Here are my params and system:

90 gallon + 30 gallon sump
1 x MP40, 1x ocean stream 1600, eheim 1262 return
Lighting = DIY LED's (78 3W cree LED's)
RO/DI H2O (TDS always shows 0)

T = 78.6
pH = 7.8 - 8.2 (pH probe)
Ca = 450
Alk = 9.6
Mg = 1500
nitrate = undetectable
PO4 = undetectable
NH3 = 0

I don't want to worry about this too much. I am new to the hobby and the tank is only 6 months old. I just don't know all the particulars about sps, and was wondering if it is common for sps to sometimes go into hiding for a little while, or if this is a sign of something bad.

 

[reefnewbie83177]

Anyone?

 

[reefnewbie83177]

bump

 

[Leena2674]

Mine have done so, however it typically means there is something off with your system or they are being irritated by something in your tank. If that's not the case, it should improve shortly. I realize that's a very generic answer, but there are so many variables in a reef aquarium that it's hard to pin down one specific reason for an animal's behavior. It also could be a flow issue. I have an Idaho Grape Monti and a Sunset Monti. Both tend to show less polyp extension under too-direct flow, whereas my digitatas all like more direct flow.

 

[Phishguy]

I lost some polyp extension when I went to LEDs.. LEDs are incredibly intense on what is under them even if it doesn't seem that bright looking at the tank.. I noticed that with the lights off, I can see polyp extension. I put some egg crate on top of the tank and the some standard screen material to lessen the intensity. Also, try moving it around the tank a little further from the LEDs. Otherwise, being only 6 mos old, you may still be having some stability issues but I'd put my money on the leds.