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Toadstool Leather Coral
Sarcophyton sp.
Care Level: Easy
Lighting Requirements: Moderate to High
Water Flow: Moderate
Aggressiveness: Peaceful
Range: Red Sea, Indo-Pacific
Family: Alcyoniidae
Water Conditions: 23-26° C; sg 1.023-1.025; pH 8.1-8.4; dKH 8-12
Propagated sarcophytons acclimate very well to new tanks due to the fact that they are tank raised. It is better to acquire coral frags when they are young. It seems that small frags have more ability to adjust to adverse conditions and survive. Sarcophytons generally grow very quickly under good conditions.
When fully open the tops of these leather corals are covered with numerous short polyps about 3 mm in length. As with most leather corals they may go through periods when their polyps do not extend. They may shrink and shed some of their outer skin. Do not be alarmed if this should occur it is a natural process that they go through. These leathers may remain closed for several weeks at a time, but will reopen bigger and more beautiful than ever. They require moderate water currents and moderate to high reef lighting for proper health. Additions of iodine will help to expedite their growth.
When provided with proper water conditions and iodine Leather Coral can double in size every six to nine months. Make sure that moderate currents will be able to supply them with necessary nutrients and trace elements. Leave several inches around Leather Coral, they will need more room as they grow.
Although symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae hosted within them supply most of their nutritional requirements through photosynthesis they do require supplemental feedings. Supplementing their diet with the addition of iodine, trace elements, marine snow, phytoplankton, and food for filter feeders will help to insure their continued good health.
Image depicted may not be the specific frag received but originates from the original parent colony.