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 refined our method. Today, our mortality rate is under 3%, and we’re sharing 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 — shaded or lower areas are ideal.
  • Flow: Provide gentle, indirect flow. Too much turbulence can stress the coral and waste its energy.
2 — Alkalinity Control
A critical factor is low alkalinity, much lower than what most reefers maintain.
  • Optimal range: 6.0 – 6.5 dKH (matches their natural habitat).
  • Upper limit: Do not exceed 7 dKH. Higher levels can cause tissue damage and mortality.
  • Stability matters most: once settled, you may gradually adjust alk, but avoid sudden changes.
Rule: If you must choose between “perfect numbers” and stability — choose stability.
3 — Do Not Rush to Frag
One of the most common mistakes is fragging Speciosa immediately after arrival — this almost guarantees death.
  • Best practice: Let it settle 1–3 months before attempting any cuts.
  • Avoid collateral damage: Mucus from freshly cut corals can drift onto Speciosa and cause tissue loss.
4 — Oxygenation
High oxygen levels are essential early on.
  • Boost aeration: Ensure strong gas exchange and high dissolved oxygen during the first weeks.
  • Benefit: Elevated oxygen can dramatically reduce early mortality and help the coral stabilize faster.
5 — Key Takeaways
To keep Malaysian Speciosa alive and thriving:
  • Start with low light & low flow.
  • Maintain 6–6.5 dKH and never exceed 7 dKH.
  • Do not frag too early — wait 1–3 months.
  • 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 following these practices can reduce loss rates to below 3%, even with sensitive wild colonies.
By OceanKingCorals
Jay