When can I get a torch tip

[Johnny C]

I’m Very new to the hobby. My tank so far is doing well. I’m getting ready for my first water change. It has gone through a full cycle I have a few corals that are growing and look healthy. When can I get a torch tip, frogspawn, or hammer head? And which one would be best for a new guy?

 

[CrunchyBananas]

I would try a frog spawn or hammer first as they tend to be hardier corals. Start testing and monitoring your alkalinity (most important) then calcium and magnesium. Once your tank is stable and your alk has minimal fluctuations, then try that first hammer or frogspawn. Once that hammer or frogspawn is doing well for about a month, perhaps consider a torch. Torches tend to be more sensitive to water parameters and fluctuations, and also tend to cost much more, so it's always wise to practice with the cheaper, hardier corals.

 

[marlinmon]

Not until EVERYTHING is stable. I waited six months to stabilize my latest build.

 

[mitch91175]

Also be careful where you source the coral. A lot of maricultured coral being sold and could be an issue for you. Look for aquacultured stuff. If you can buy direct from someone that has it in their main display tank and you can see the colonies.

 

[ReeferWarrant]

I started with a hammer like @CrunchyBananas mentioned, went from 1 polyp to 4 now in the past 5 months. I have been doing exactly that, start with a cheaper variant of coral and build your confidence. I'm currently trying with SPS and I think I'm progressing, a lot less of a worry with a random $10 montipora frag than some of the more expensive Acros.