How to Successfully Keep Malaysian Speciosa (SPS)

How to Successfully Keep Malaysian Speciosa (SPS)

We are professional importers of Malaysian corals, bringing in at least 150 pieces of Malaysian SPS per shipment. Through years of experience — and after losing many corals in the learning process — we have refined our methods. Today, our mortality rate is under 3%, and we’d like to share the key practices that made this possible.

1. Initial Acclimation — Low Light, Low Flow

Unlike many other SPS, Speciosa does not appreciate intense light or strong flow right away.

  • Lighting: Keep them under low light when first introduced, ideally in shaded or lower areas of the tank.

  • Flow: Provide gentle, indirect flow. Too much turbulence can stress the coral and waste its energy.

2. Alkalinity Control

A critical factor for Malaysian Speciosa is low alkalinity, much lower than what most reefers usually maintain.

  • Optimal range: 6.0 – 6.5 dKH, which matches their natural habitat in Malaysian reefs.

  • Upper limit: Do not exceed 7 dKH. Higher levels can lead to tissue damage and mortality.

  • Stability matters most. Once the coral has settled, you may gradually adjust alk, but avoid sudden changes.

3. Do Not Rush to Frag

One of the most common mistakes is fragging Speciosa immediately after arrival — this almost guarantees death.

  • Best practice: Allow the coral to settle for 1–3 months in your tank before attempting any cuts.

  • Avoid collateral damage: Even when fragging other SPS, be careful. Mucus released from freshly cut corals can drift onto Speciosa and cause tissue loss or even death.

4. Oxygenation — A Life Saver

High oxygen levels are essential in the early stage.

  • Boost aeration: Ensure strong gas exchange and high dissolved oxygen during the first weeks.

  • Benefit: Elevated oxygen dramatically reduces early mortality and helps the coral stabilize faster.

5. Key Takeaways

To keep Malaysian Speciosa alive and thriving:

  1. Start with low light & low flow.

  2. Maintain low alkalinity (6–6.5 dKH) and never exceed 7.

  3. Do not frag too early — wait 1–3 months.

  4. Provide high oxygenation to improve survival.

With patience and proper care, Malaysian Speciosa can thrive and develop stunning color and growth. Our experience as large-scale importers shows that by following these practices, loss rates can be reduced to below 3%, even with sensitive wild colonies.
By Oceankingcorals 
Jay