Encrusting monti's around the base of branching SPS?

[Trever]

Can encrusting montipora provide "ground cover" (rock cover really) around branching SPS high in my tank?

Wondering about aggression. Eventually shading might be an issue (new tank), but I would hope by then the montipora is cascading down the rock some to get light there, so might be ok?

 

[Backreefing]

I’ve read a similar thread about this same thing . Some members said no because the montipora will kill the acropora bottom up . Some said yes you can .

 

[Bpb]

The montipora will eventually kill the Acropora on a long enough timeline. I’ve tried it with several types. What typically happens for me is the acro wins at the point of contact on the base, but the montipora will rapidly start growing vertically and basically grow a dome over the acro if you let it. Either way the acro will be constantly at war, and you’ll be constantly pruning back the monti. More often than I care to anyway

 

[Trever]

I'll give it a whirl. The SPS I have are the of the faster growing, non-acro variety.