Ultra Rainbow Micromussa (Acan Lord) (Micromussa lordhowensis)
The Ultra Rainbow Micromussa, commonly known in the reef hobby as an Acan Lord, is a highly sought-after LPS coral prized for its combination of vibrant colors and fleshy, well-defined polyps. Individual polyps can display multiple contrasting colors, including shades of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple, with coloration often becoming especially striking under blue-heavy reef lighting. Each polyp can develop its own unique color pattern, giving mature colonies a colorful, mosaic-like appearance.
Micromussa lordhowensis typically grows by producing new polyps around the edges of the colony, gradually forming a dense cluster of fleshy corallites. When fully expanded, the polyps develop a soft, rounded appearance with gentle movement in the current. Its relatively compact growth habit makes it an excellent choice for adding concentrated color and texture without requiring the amount of space needed by many larger LPS corals.
Recommended Care
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Scientific Name: Micromussa lordhowensis
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Common Name: Acan Lord, Acan Coral
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Care Level: Easy to Moderate
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Lighting: Low to Moderate, approximately 50–120 PAR
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Water Flow: Low to Moderate — gentle, indirect flow that allows full polyp expansion
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Placement: Lower to Middle aquarium
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Temperament: Semi-Aggressive
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Growth Form: Fleshy, multi-polyp colony that expands by budding
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Feeding: Photosynthetic; supplemental feeding is highly recommended
Placement & Flow
Place the Ultra Rainbow Micromussa on a stable area of rockwork or on the sand bed where the fleshy polyps have room to expand. Avoid placing it directly underneath strong, concentrated water flow, as excessive turbulence can prevent full extension and potentially irritate the tissue.
Allow several inches of clearance from neighboring corals. Although Micromussa generally does not have the aggressive reach of some large LPS species, its feeding tentacles can extend beyond the normal daytime polyp size and may damage nearby corals. Give the colony additional room as it grows and produces new polyps.
Lighting
Ultra Rainbow Micromussa generally performs well under 50–120 PAR. Moderate, consistent lighting is usually sufficient to maintain healthy growth and coloration, and extremely high light is generally unnecessary.
When introducing a new specimen, begin toward the lower end of the recommended range and acclimate it gradually to your aquarium's lighting. Sudden exposure to significantly higher intensity can cause stress, reduced polyp extension, or changes in coloration.
Blue-heavy reef lighting can make fluorescent pigments particularly pronounced, highlighting the coral's multicolor appearance. A balanced spectrum is recommended for evaluating the coral's overall coloration and health.
Feeding
Micromussa lordhowensis is photosynthetic and receives energy from its symbiotic algae, but it is also an enthusiastic feeder. Regular supplemental feeding can support growth and polyp development, especially in nutrient-controlled reef aquariums.
When the polyps are fully extended, offer appropriately sized foods such as mysis shrimp, finely chopped marine seafood, small pellets, or quality LPS coral foods. Feed individual polyps carefully and avoid offering pieces that are too large for the coral to consume.
Allow adequate time for the coral to capture and ingest food, and maintain good water movement afterward to help distribute nutrients throughout the aquarium.
Ultra Rainbow Micromussa is an excellent choice for reef keepers who want concentrated color, fleshy LPS texture, and a coral that can develop into a stunning multi-polyp colony. Its combination of vivid rainbow coloration, compact growth, and strong feeding response makes it a standout addition to an LPS collection or a colorful mixed reef.
