When you say good growth...what exactly do you mean?

[kevensquint]

Hello, I'm interested in those of you talking about good growth in you SPS. I know different species must have different growth rates, but what are you comparing to? Is it just a personal opinion? or is there a site that explains growth rates for certain corals kept in ideal conditions. I am very curious because I got a monti digitata about 3-4 weeks ago, it has approx 1/2" of new growth. IMO, thats good, but what do I know... if someone says 1" per month is average for this coral, then I know that its not so good afterall and I can improve on something to do better.

 

[dvanacker]

Every coral will be different in every different tank. No one is going to give you a straight answer for this question. Also you may find that growth can speed up over time.

So....in the end I think you have gotten fine growth and I wouldnt worry about it too much. What you might want to figure out is what TYPES of acropora grow faster and which ones grow slower. IE. Millepora grow fast, a.lokani grow slow etc.

 

[MammothReefer]

Think it's a subjective question. If I can see noticeable growth when I review my pictures from Month to Month I am happy. If I'm not seeing any change in the corals in that time span I start thinking something is wrong. Other things, if you clip a piece and it heals within a week or less that's good growth to me. New frags showing signs of starting to encrust in a couple weeks same deal. I'm sure others may have high tolerances..but as long as I see any growth it's good growth in my books

 

[HHIreefer843]

if it grows, its good

 

[allsps40]

It is a matter of experience. When you have had slow growth and fast growth you know it. Many of my sps are growing about 1 inch a month I consider that good growth.

 

[dunk373]

if its not growing its dying thats my opinion

 

[reeferman1128]

I have seen the same coral fragged from the same mother colony grow at different rates, in different forms and even different colors just from being placed in different parts of that same original tank. Even with equal lighting. Same thing happens in the wild from one side of the reef to the other. For signs of a healthy coral you have to look at several factors... Color, pollyp extension and growth. If you have all of these, you have nothing to worry about. If you are missing one, then there is something that can be approved upon to better the health of your coral.