ETA: I accidentally double-posted the original thread and the other post (same name and time) has a more extended exchange that gives a bit more context to the summary below.
Thanks for following up. The short version, unfortunately, is that neither head made it.
More info in case others cross this thread in the future: shortly after posting the thread I dipped the coral in Seachem Reef Dip (iodine-based) for 30 minutes and moved the coral down to the sand, off to the side, in an effort to put it in a slightly lower light/flow area (although it is possible it actually had slightly more flow given the area narrows between the rocks and glass). I also moved two fish out of quarantine into the tank and fed generously to try to slowly increase nitrates. Testing and increased algae growth suggest usable nitrate levels (tests still down in the 3-4 range but going up ~ 1 ppm per week).
The first head (which had been in visible decline for almost a week) continued to go the wrong way. The second head *appeared* okay, but closer inspection showed no flesh band. Shortly after it was completely lost over a relatively short period of 2-3 days.
The rest of the tank inhabitants - two hardy fish, a fire shrimp, a tuxedo urchin, snails, and my other two little pieces of coral (micromussa and zoa) - appear to be doing well. I put a pause on all purchases while I let this play out and see how my nutrient tests go. I will likely resume both fish and coral purchases around the first of June.
Lessons learned:
1. Look at lots of Eyphylia/Fimbriaphyllia examples in the local shops to try to get a better feel for the flesh band that extends down the trunk and then make sure to only purchase pieces that have a respectable band.
2. Try to have a strategy for keeping nutrients up in case something unusual happens (e.g., low bioload in early days or if fish are moved out).
3. Avoid putting Eyphylia/Fimbriaphyllia plugs directly on the sand bed to reduce the chance of sand grain(s) getting into the polyp.
4. Open to any other constructive criticism or advice from fellow reefers.
Almost six months in and this is my first loss. Of course I am not happy about it, but overall I feel like I'm on a decent trajectory (after saying that, my tank will probably crash today while I'm at work!)
In an effort to end on a happy note, pic of my Acan (let me know if you see trouble!)
a tuxedo urchin, and a fire shrimp.
