Finger Leather Coral, Lobed Leather Coral, Thick Finger Coral
Lobophytum Sp.
With the Devil's Finger Coral, a creative aquarist can create a colorful and artistic display!
The Devil's Finger Coral Lobophytum sp. is a very easy coral to care for and to propagate. The great variety of color and shape that this genus has to offer can present an intriguing challenge to even the advanced aquarist
The Lobophytum sp. form low encrusting colonies with species being bowl-shaped or standing more erect. Colonies in the wild grow to over 3 feet (1 meter) in diameter. They are a soft coral that have a thick and heavy "skin" with lobed projections. The flesh feels grainy, and can be brittle, so handle with care.
The stalks of the Devil's Finger Coral are fat and short, with compact "heads" or clusters at the top of the coral. These clusters are crowded together, tending to fold or create finger-like extensions or lobes. Thus the common names include Finger Leather Corals, Lobed Leather Coral, Thick Finger Coral, Devil's Hand Coral, and Cabbage Leather Coral.
Depending on the species, their lobes vary in size and number and are sprinkled with retractable polyps. The polyps look more like tufts instead of the fully developed polyps seen on other corals. When feeding the polyps are out, and as nutrients are captured, the polyps retract. These corals are generally shades of brown in the wild, with sometimes lighter contrasting colored polyps sparsely scattered across the surface. Finding the colorful specimens can take some patience, but locating aquacultured colors of green, pink, gray, mustards, browns, creams and everything in-between makes this an enjoyable venture.
The Lobophytum genus are some of the best beginner soft corals you can buy. They produce less mucous, and are more forgiving than other leather corals. They are also not as sensitive to handling, especially when propagation is done. These were some of the first corals introduced into the trade because they travel well. Even in a species specific tank, each animal's unique distinctions make the display fascinating, and so are rewarding for advanced aquarists as well.
The Devil's Finger Coral is a hardy, adaptable coral and can be easy to care for. They come from a wide variety of environments at depths of 20 to 60 (6 to 18 m). They are found near the shore on shallow waters reef flats, where they are most prolific, as well as turbid lagoons attached to rubble. Some are exposed to low tide as well. Moderate water movement and a medium to strong light is recommended. For nutrition they use the symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae, that lives within their tissue, and extracting nutrients from the water. In a mature system they really do not need to be fed at, but do need more intense lighting for good zooxanthellae growth.
Scientific name
Family: Alcyoniidae
Species: Lobophytum sp.
Status:
The Lobophytum genus is not on the IUCN Red List for Endangered Species.
Due to the Similarity .... Here is a brief .. For more information click on the primary name ..
Difficulty of Care :
Leather Coral Care: The Devil's Finger Coral Lobophytum sp. is easy to keep and propagate, making them a great coral for the beginner. Most of the Leather corals go through a period of slothing off their mucous layer, during which it fails to expand. It will also shed if conditions are not right or something is bothering it. Sometimes it is hard to tell the difference. This leather can hurt other corals if it is touching them, so be sure to leave enough room between species.
Foods / Feeding :
Leather Coral Feeding: In the wild, Lobophytum corals have developed several feeding strategies. They capture microscopic food particles from the water column, can absorb dissolved organic matter, and have a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae known as zooxanthellae, where they also receive some of their nutrients.
In captivity the Devil's Finger Coral may be fed phyto- and micro- zooplankton, but do well with extracting nutrients from the water and really do not need to be fed at all in mature systems. For maximum growth, more intense lighting is needed since this type of coral thrives more on light, which supports its zooxanthellae, than larger foods.
Aquarium Care :
Stable tank conditions are needed to keep the Lobophytum genus. Doing water changes of 20% a month or 10% biweekly is needed, although it is suggested that doing 5% water changes once a week will replenish many of the needed additives. Soft corals still need to have proper chemical levels for proper growth.
Iodine is used up quickly in captive environments, and does need to be added to the top off water or to the tank regularly. Make sure you have a test to make sure your levels are sufficient. Frequent water changes are preferred over adding other supplements.
Suggested levels for Lobophytum species are:
-
Calcium: 385 - 450 ppm (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient. Anything over 400 tends to wear on pumps and other moving parts.)
-
Alkalinity: 3.2 - 4.8 MEQ/L (8 to 12 dKh - 10 is recommended)
-
Phosphates: 0, zero.
-
Magnesium: 1200 - 1350 ppm. (Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.)
-
Strontium: 8 - 10
Aquarium Parameters :
A typical live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Devil's Finger Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production and plenty of room to grow..
Provide proper lighting and water movement. They need a moderate to strong water flow. They also like moderate to high lighting, allow more time to adjust to metal halides. If you have weaker lighting place them closer to the top, but closer to the bottom if you have stronger lights. The Lobophytum genus is semi-aggressive toward other sensitive corals, like the stony corals.
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Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallon (190 L) or larger
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Marine Lighting: Moderate to high, allow more time to adjust to metal halides.
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Temperature: 76° - 82° F (24° - 28° C)
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Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025
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Water Movement: Moderate to strong, and indirect is best
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Water Region: Top placement if you have weaker lights and bottom if you have stronger lights.
Sex - Sexual differences :
Though there is much research to be done, it has been found that the Cabbage Leather Coral Lobophytum crassum does have a distinct sexual difference, and it is suggested that other Lobophytum species may have a similar orientation. Males of the L. crassum, are distinguishable once they are 7" across (18 cm), 2 years old and weigh at least 3 ounces (83 g). At this point gonads are visible. This is actually quite typical of many stony corals.
Family: Alcyoniidae - Sarcophyton
1- Common Toadstool Coral
Toadstool Leather Coral, Cup Leather Coral, Toadstool, Mushroom Leather Coral, Umbrella Coral, Mushroom Coral
Sarcophyton glaucum
The easy care Common Toadstool Leather is large and handsome, and a plentiful soft coral!
The Common Toadstool Coral Sarcophyton glaucum is one of the well-known and readily available soft corals. Like other leather corals in theSarcophyton genus, it resembles a mushroom or toadstool. Consequently the S. glaucum has many names similar to other leathers such as Toadstool Leather Coral, Mushroom Leather Coral, Cup Leather Coral, Toadstool, Umbrella Coral, and Mushroom Coral. When ordering this or any other leather coral, its best to make sure you use the scientific name.
The Sarcophyton sp. have a thick smooth, single stalk with a flared, smooth mushroom-shaped top that can be folded or funnel-shaped. Depending on the species, younger colonies are mushroom-shaped and mature colonies are more lobed and folded like a toadstool. Some keep the toadstool look their entire life. The flesh is firm and soft, yet can be easily torn. The "top" is called a capitulum and within that area are found long autozooid polyps for feeding and many also have siphonozooid polyps for water movement. The polyps can retract all the way, giving them a smooth look.
The S. glaucum tends to be rather plain in color. Its flesh is a yellow/tan and the polyps, which are rather long when extended, are typically tipped in green. Higher lighting levels, 10K or higher, can bring out the green. Its capitulum is also less convoluted (folding) than on some of the others in this genus, like that of the Elephant Ear Toadstool S. trocheliophorum. The Sarcophyton leather corals can grow quite large, with mature males reaching 4" (11 cm) across and 24" (61 cm) across or more for females.
The Common Toadstool Coral is one of the hardiest of corals. It is easy to keep and propagate, making it a great coral for the beginner. They like a moderate water flow, medium to high lighting, and for nutrition they use the symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae, that lives within their tissue, as well as extracting nutrients from the water. They do grow large and are aggressive if allowed to touch other corals, so they need plenty of space.
The Sarcophyton sp. tend to produce a lot of toxic compounds compared to other leathers. The Common toadstool leather is one of the better understood leathers. According to the Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, and several other notable Bioscience institutions around the world, there are properties in the cells of this coral found to slow leukemia. With the production of toxins however, care must be taken when handling. They are also toxic toward other corals due to their release of terpenes (poisons used to ward off encroaching corals). They have been known to harm some stony coral species of Acropora like the Staghorn Acropora A. formosa, some species of Porites like P andrewsii, as well as the death of Catalaphyllia, Euphyllia, and Plerogyra species.
Scientific name
Family: Alcyoniidae
Species: Sarcophyton glaucum
Distribution / Background:
Leather Coral Information: The Sarcophyton genus was described by Lesson in 1834. They belong to the family Alcyoniidae, which are referred to as octocorals. There are over 35 species of Sarcophyton. Some of their common names are Toadstool Leather, Leather Coral, Mushroom Leather, Sarcophyton Coral, Mushroom Leather, and Trough Coral.
The Common Toadstool Coral S. glaucum was described by Quoy and Gaimard in 1833. This leather has many names similar to other leathers such as Toadstool Leather Coral, Mushroom Leather Coral, Cup Leather Coral, Toadstool, Umbrella Coral, and Mushroom Coral. They have been propagated in captivity, but since they tend to be rather bland in color, many times these corals are dyed. Dyed corals tend to not do as well and are dyed because the areas some come from have been bleached due to pollution and weather patterns.
According to the Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, and several other notable Bioscience institutions around the world, there are properties in the cells of this coral to slow leukemia. They removed 4 novel biscembranes (parts of a cell) and found that 2 of them "had a weak, yet present activity against the rapid increase of human promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL-60)." In layman's terms, they may have found a way to slow leukemia down.
Where Sarcophyton Corals Are Found: The S. glaucum are one of the most wide spread of the genus. They are found in the Red Sea, Indo-Pacific, and around South Africa.
Sarcophyton Coral Habitat: The S. glaucum are found on reef flats, fore reefs, reef slopes and lagoons with hard and soft coral species. On reef slopes they frequently grow in groups.
Status
The Sarcophyton glaucum is not listed on the IUCN Red List for Endangered Species.
Description :
What do Sarcophyton Corals look like: The Common Toadstool Coral S. glaucum, like others in this genus, resembles a mushroom or toadstool, with their capitulum (top) having autozooid and siphonozooid polyps that are rather long when extended and are typically tipped in green. Higher lighting levels can bring out the green, with 10K or higher. When the polyps are completely retracted, the surface has a very smooth look to it.
In varying amounts, depending on the species, Sarcophyton leathers will warp their upper surface and direct the water flow by forming ridges that direct the water to feathery pinnules on their tentacles. These feathery pinnules are designed to sieve the water for nutrients.
The capitulum of the Common Toadstool Coral S. glaucum is less convoluted (folding) than others in this genus. The flesh is yellow/tan with a tapering spindle like appearance at the surface of the trunk and are double-tapered inside the trunk. The flesh is firm and soft, yet easily torn, so care should be taken when handling the S. glaucum. The Sarcophytonleather corals can grow from 4 x 4 x 4" for males to 24 x 24 x 24" or more for females.
Difficulty of Care:
Leather Coral Care: The Common Toadstool Coral S. glaucum is very easy to keep and propagate, making them a great coral for the beginner. They like a moderate water flow, medium to high lighting, and for nutrition they use the symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae, that lives within their tissue, as well as extracting nutrients from the water. They do grow large and are aggressive if allowed to touch other corals, so be sure to leave enough room between species.
Foods / Feeding:
Leather Coral Feeding: The Sarcophyton leathers have reduced digestive systems. They do not use mucus nets, nor are their tentacles designed to catch prey. To make up for this, they will warp their upper surface and direct water flow by forming ridges that lead to feathery pinnules on their tentacles. These feathery pinnules are designed to sieve the water for nutrients. They can also absorb dissolved organic matter, and have a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae known as zooxanthellae, where they also receive some of their nutrients.
Because these corals are photosynthetic, they receiving nutrients from the marine algae, zooxanthellae, that lives within their tissue so really do not need to be fed in mature systems. For maximum growth, more intense lighting is needed since this type of coral thrives on light, which supports its zooxanthellae.
Though it is often stated that the Common Toadstool Corals do better in tanks that have regular feedings, it is not because they benefit from direct feeding. Their digestive anatomy has not developed to capture larger foods (even "sand" sized). But with feedings of other corals, extra nutrients are inevitably added to the water and in turn do benefit this coral. The feathery pinnules at the top of their tentacles will sieve nutrients out of the water. These nutrients are especially important if the light is not on the higher end.
Aquarium Care:
Stable tank conditions are needed to keep the Sarcophyton genus. A water change that is a standard for any reef system, not to exceed 30% is needed. In general, a typical water change of 20% a month or 10% biweekly, depending on the bio load, is sufficient. Some have found success by doing a 5% water change once a week, keeping water quality high and reducing the need for most additives. Soft corals do need to have proper chemical levels for good growth.
Iodine is used up quickly in captive environments, and does need to be added to the top off water or to the tank regularly. Make sure you have a test to make sure your levels are sufficient. Frequent water changes are preferred over adding supplements other than those listed here.
Suggested levels for Sarcophyton species are:
-
Calcium: 385 - 450 ppm (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient. Anything over 400 tends to wear on pumps and other moving parts.)
-
Alkalinity: 3.2 - 4.8 MEQ/L (8 to 12 dKh - 10 is recommended)
-
Phosphates: 0, zero.
-
Magnesium: 1200 - 1350 ppm. (Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.)
-
Strontium: 8 - 10. Strontium levels are suggested to keep the coral happy, and a kit for testing proper levels is suggested.
Aquarium Parameters :
A typical live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Common Toadstool Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production and plenty of room to grow.
Provide proper lighting and water movement. They need a moderate water flow and they also like moderate to high lighting. Make sure the water flow does not shoot a straight hard stream directly at the coral, only random water current. TheSarcophyton genus is aggressive toward other sensitive corals, like stony corals, so be sure to provide plenty of room between these and all other species.
-
Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallon (190 L) or larger
-
Marine Lighting: All, though moderate to high is suggested.
-
Temperature: 68° - 84° F (22° - 29° C)
-
Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025
-
Water Movement: Moderate, with a random flow is suggested.
-
Water Region: All areas of the aquarium.
Compatibility and Social Behaviors :
The Common Toadstool Coral is aggressive. The S. glaucum is toxic toward other corals due to their release of terpenes (poisons to ward off encroaching corals). They have been known to harm some stony coral species ofAcropora like the Staghorn Acropora A. formosa, some species of Porites like P andrewsii, as well as the death ofCatalaphyllia, Euphyllia, and Plerogyra species.
This species can generally be housed with fishes, shrimp, and hermit crabs. Be careful if a clownfish decides to use a S. glaucum as a surrogate anemone. The irritation of the clown can prevent the coral from expanding. In this case removal of the clown, or screening off the coral from the fish may be needed.
In the wild there are various copepods (tiny, shrimp-like crustaceans) found on this species. There are also several species of flatworms (planaria), nudibranchs, and other parasites that tend to feed on its tissue. If these pests are present, they can usually be removed with a simple 5 minute freshwater dip.
Sex - Sexual differences :
Males of the Common Toadstool Coral S. glaucum tend to be smaller than females, but mature quicker. Males will reach 4 x 4 x 4" (11 x 11 x 11 cm) and sexual maturity in 6 to 7 years. The females will reach 24 x 24 x 24" (61 x 61 x 61 cm) and sexual maturity at 10 years.
Breeding and Reproduction:
In the wild, the Sarcophyton genus will reproduce naturally by spawning as well as by budding and fragmenting. They will drop off clones of themselves by self fission. A sign of reproduction is a hole that may appear in the middle of the capitulum, and as it reaches the edge, a small piece falls off.
As can be seen in the photo this coral is reproducing by "budding" in which a small coral grows from the base and starts its own coral. The "bud" can be severed from the parent coral at this point and glued to its own rock.
The S. glaucum only spawns once a year. It takes egg production 22-23 months to form, thus females have 2 sets of oocytes. The male's sperm takes 10-12 months to form. Their annual spawning (around July in the Red Sea area) occurs in one night with the external fertilization producing larvae. The larvae is mobile within 36 hours. The larvae will swim for 14 days, thus resulting in this coral being one of the most wide spread leathers in theSarcophyton genus.
The Common Toadstool Coral is very easy to propagate, for just a small piece or for a large frag, but with a few variations in procedure. Using either procedure, the coral will more than likely deflate, but with good water flow it will recover. Corals can emit a nasty and at times noxious odor, so be sure there is good ventilation. Clean up any mucous when finished to prevent any possible health problems.
To frag a small piece:
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Make sure your leather is healthy.
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You may use a pair of very sharp scissors or a scalpel.
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Simply cut a small forked frag (1-2" frag size) away from the mother colony while still in the tank.
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Loosely rubber band the frag between branches and affix to a small piece of rubble that has a natural indent or a plug.
For larger fragging:
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The leather coral should have all polyps retracted before proceeding.
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Remove the coral from the tank, and quickly perform the fragmentation from a mother colony with a clean razor, scalpel, or knife. (scissors can damage tissue from larger fragging cuts.)
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Provide a bath of clean, temperature and salinity adjusted, water (same as main tank) with a little iodine before returning to the tank. This bath will help clear out the mucous that the leather will produce from this procedure.
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The frag can be glued, tied, sewn to a rock or plug, or just set on rubble where the current will not take them away, but will help them heal.
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Return the leather to the same spot it was in before fragging and discard bath water.This placement will depend on the size and shape of the frag. At the very minimum place it at least close to where the mother colony is located, perhaps using the mother colony to block a water flow that is too quick for the frag.
Potential Problems :
The Sarcophyton genus is generally very hardy and adaptable, but can contract disease. Coral diseases are commonly caused by stress, shock (like pouring freshwater into the tank and it coming in contact with the leather), and incompatible tank mates including specific fish, or pests such as a Rapa rapa Snail which will eat them from the inside out.
If the coral goes limp for a prolonged period of time, lasting over a week, there may be underlying conditions such as poor water quality, a predatorial snail, or a nearby coral starting chemical warfare, competing for room. Look for rotting tissue and holes that will show up under the capitulum. If the coral sheds for a prolonged period of time, aim a powerhead or return flow at the leather to clear off the mucus.
Some diseases and treatments include:
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Flatworms, Brown Jelly Infections, cyanobacteriaTreat with a freshwater dip of 1 to 3 minutes in chlorine free freshwater of the same temperature and pH as the main display.
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Cyanobacteria, Brown Jelly InfectionsThese can also be treated with Neomycin sulphite, Kanamycin and other broad-spectrum antibiotics. The pill can be pulverised into a fine powder, mixed with sea water to make a paste, and then applied to the wound or affected site of the coral with a simple artists brush.
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Necrosis, Black Band DiseaseTo prevent necrosis, and fight black band disease, according to one author the corals can be treated with Tetracycline at 10 mg per quart/liter.
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Lugol's Solution (as a preventative/cure)Use a Lugol's dip at 5-10 drops of 5% Lugol's solution per quart/liter of newly mixed sea water that has been mixing for 10-20 minutes. Start with a 10 minute dip and observe the reaction of the coral. A daily dip can be done until the coral is cured.
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AmputationOne procedure that can save a coral's life if nothing else is working is amputation of the affected area. This must be done in a separate container consisting of some of the tank's water. Cut slightly into healthy tissue surrounding the diseased flesh then reattach the coral to the substrate with the open wound cemented on part of the reef structure.
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"Liquid Band Aid"For wounds that are on the side or top, some have used "liquid band aid" or super glue to seal the wound.
Availability :
Soft Corals for Sale: The Common Toadstool Coral S. glaucum is very easy to find pet shops and on line. Online they can run about $50.00 USD and up, depending on size and/or color.
References :
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Animal-World References: Marine and Reef
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Anthony Calfo, Book of Coral Propagation, Volume 1 Edition 2: Reef Gardening for Aquarists, Reading Trees; 2nd edition, 2007
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Harry Erhardt and Horst Moosleitner, Marine Atlas Volume 2, Invertebrates (Baensch Marine Atlas), Mergus Verlag GmbH, Revised edition, 2005
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Vincent B. Hargreaves, The Complete Book of the Marine Aquarium, Thunder Bay Press, 2002
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Eric Borneman, Aquarium Corals: Selection, Husbandry, and Natural History , TFH Publications, 2001
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Biscembranes from the Soft Coral Sarcophyton glaucum, ACS Publications, American Chemical Society and American Society of Pharmacognosy, Copyright 2006
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Bob Goemans, Toadstool/Umbrella/Mushroom Coral, Animal Library, Saltwatercorner.com
Green Toadstool Coral, Ruffled Leather Coral, Trough Coral ,Toadstool Leather, Mushroom Coral, Toadstool Mushroom
Sarcophyton trocheliophorum
The Elephant Ear Coral is a large toadstool or mushroom coral with a cool ruffled look!
Due to the Similarity .... Here is a brief .. For more information click on the primary name ..
The Elephant Ear Coral or Green Toadstool Coral Sarcophyton trocheliophorum is one of the other leather coral favorites in theSarcophyton genus. Like the other members of this genus it resembles a mushroom or toadstool, but as it matures it develops many deep folds on its cap. Thus the name Elephant Ear. With its hardy nature and ruffled appearance, it is a great beginner's coral and adds a touch of diversity to a soft coral tank .
The Sarcophyton sp. have a thick smooth, single stalk with a flared, smooth mushroom-shaped top that can be folded or funnel-shaped. Depending on the species, younger colonies are mushroom-shaped and mature colonies are more lobed and folded like a toadstool. Some keep the toadstool look their entire life. The flesh is firm and soft, yet can be easily torn. The "top" is called a capitulum and within that area are found long autozooid polyps for feeding and siphonozooid polyps for water movement. The polyps can retract all the way, giving them a smooth look.
The capitulum of the S. trocheliophorum is very convoluted (many deep folds), almost giving it a cauliflower look from a distance. The extended polyps are shorter and finer than others in its genus, and can be brown or green. It also grows very large, up to 36" (91 cm) across and 36" to 48" (91-122 cm) tall! The flesh is yellow/tan, cream or tan. It is firm and soft, yet easily torn, so care should be taken when handling this species.
The S. trocheliophorum is known by many common names including Green Toadstool Coral, Ruffled Leather Coral, Trough Coral, and Gray-Green Soft Coral. Because it is similar in form to other leathers, many of the same common names are used interchangeably such as Toadstool Leather Coral, Toadstool Mushroom Coral, Toadstool Mushroom Leather, Mushroom Leather Coral, Umbrella Coral, Sarcophyton Coral, and Mushroom Coral. When ordering this or any other leather coral, its best to make sure you use the scientific name.
The Elephant Ear Coral is one of the hardiest of corals. It is easy to keep and propagate, making it a great coral for the beginner. They like a moderate water flow, medium to high lighting, and for nutrition they use the symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae, that lives within their tissue, as well as extracting nutrients from the water. They do grow very large and are aggressive if allowed to touch other corals, so they need plenty of space.
The Sarcophyton sp. tend to produce a lot of toxic compounds compared to other leathers. The Elephant Ear Coral is one of the better understood leathers. Research has also shown it has properties to help with skin cancer, breast cancer and leukemia. With the production of toxins however, care must be taken when handling. They are also toxic toward other corals due to their release of terpenes (poisons used to ward off encroaching corals).
Scientific name
Family: Alcyoniidae
Species: Sarcophyton trocheliophorum
Difficulty of Care:
Leather Coral Care: The Elephant Ear Coral S. trocheliophorum is very easy to keep and propagate, making them a great coral for the beginner. They like a moderate water flow, medium to high lighting, and for nutrition they use the symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae, that lives within their tissue, as well as extracting nutrients from the water. They do grow large and are aggressive if allowed to touch other corals, so be sure to leave enough room between species.
Foods / Feeding :
Leather Coral Feeding: The Sarcophyton leathers have reduced digestive systems. They do not use mucus nets, nor are their tentacles designed to catch prey. To make up for this, they will warp their upper surface and direct water flow by forming ridges that lead to feathery pinnules on their tentacles. These feathery pinnules are designed to sieve the water for nutrients. They can also absorb dissolved organic matter, and have a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae known as zooxanthellae, where they also receive some of their nutrients.
Because these corals are photosynthetic, they receiving nutrients from the marine algae, zooxanthellae, that lives within their tissue so really do not need to be fed in mature systems. For maximum growth, more intense lighting is needed since this type of coral thrives on light, which supports its zooxanthellae.
Though it is often stated that the Elephant Ear Corals do better in tanks that have regular feedings, it is not because they benefit from direct feeding. Their digestive anatomy has not developed to capture larger foods (even "sand" sized). But with feedings of other corals, extra nutrients are inevitably added to the water and in turn do benefit this coral. The feathery pinnules at the top of their tentacles will sieve nutrients out of the water. These nutrients are especially important if the light is not on the higher end.
Aquarium Care :
Stable tank conditions are needed to keep the Sarcophyton genus. A water change that is a standard for any reef system, not to exceed 30% is needed. In general, a typical water change of 20% a month or 10% biweekly, depending on the bio load, is sufficient. Some have found success by doing a 5% water change once a week, keeping water quality high and reducing the need for most additives. Soft corals do need to have proper chemical levels for good growth.
Iodine is used up quickly in captive environments, and does need to be added to the top off water or to the tank regularly. Make sure you have a test to make sure your levels are sufficient. Frequent water changes are preferred over adding supplements other than those listed here.
Suggested levels for Sarcophyton species are:
-
Calcium: 385 - 450 ppm (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient. Anything over 400 tends to wear on pumps and other moving parts.)
-
Alkalinity: 3.2 - 4.8 MEQ/L (8 to 12 dKh - 10 is recommended)
-
Phosphates: 0, zero.
-
Magnesium: 1200 - 1350 ppm. (Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.)
-
Strontium: 8 - 10. Strontium levels are suggested to keep the coral happy, and a kit for testing proper levels is suggested.
Aquarium Parameters :
A typical live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Elephant Ear Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production and plenty of room to grow.
Provide proper lighting and water movement. They need a moderate water flow and they also like moderate to high lighting. Make sure the water flow does not shoot a straight hard stream directly at the coral, only random water current. TheSarcophyton genus is aggressive toward other sensitive corals, like stony corals, so be sure to provide plenty of room between these and all other species.
-
Minimum Tank Size / Length: 100 gallon (380 L) or larger
-
Marine Lighting: High is recommended
-
Temperature: 68° - 84° F (22° - 29° C)
-
Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025
-
Water Movement: Moderate, with a random flow is suggested.
-
Water Region: All areas of the aquarium.
-
Sex - Sexual differences : Males tend to be smaller than females, and take 6 to 7 years to sexually mature with the females reaching sexual maturity at 10 years.
Elegant Leather Coral, Yellow Toadstool Leather ,Fiji Yellow Leather, Yellow Umbrella Leather, Ruffled Leather
Sarcophyton elegans
When the Yellow Leather Coral is happy its tentacles come out, giving it a fuzzy look!
The Yellow Leather Coral Sarcophyton elegans is a favorite coral from the Sarcophyton genus. The majority of the Sarcophyton sp. have a thick smooth, single stalk with a flared, smooth mushroom-shaped top that can be folded or funnel-shaped. The S. elegans however has less of a stalk, and grows closer to the rock work.
The S. elegans is usually yellow and its mushroom-shaped top has folded edges. This "top" is called a capitulum, and within that area are found autozooid polyps for feeding and siphonozooid polyps for water movement. The polyps can retract all the way, giving it a smooth look at times.
It is a very attractive mushroom in the reef aquarium, but unlike the other leathers the S. elegans is sensitive to many occurrences in the captive environment. The flesh is firm and soft, yet can be easily torn. Touching, air, and traveling can result in stress and possible death. Also the Sarcophyton genus tend to produce a lot of toxic compounds compared to other leathers. With the production of toxins, its sensitivity, and the delicate nature of its flesh, care must be taken when handling this species as well as in shipping and handling.
The Yellow Leather Coral is moderate to hard to keep. They like a moderate water flow and high lighting. For nutrition they use the symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae, that lives within their tissue, as well as extracting nutrients from the water. They are toxic toward other corals due to their release of terpenes (poisons used to ward off encroaching corals) and they do grow large, so they need plenty of space. Propagating the S. elegans is moderately difficult as well, since they are sensitive to stress and wounds heal very slowly, and at times, not at all. Their tentacles come out when happy and make for a "fuzzy" look.
The Yellow Leather Coral is known by many common names including Elegant Leather Coral, Yellow Toadstool Leather, Fiji Yellow Leather, Yellow Fiji Leather. Yellow Umbrella Leather, and Ruffled Leather Coral. Because it is similar in form to other leathers, many of the same common names are used interchangeably such as Toadstool Leather Coral, Toadstool Mushroom Coral, Toadstool Mushroom Leather, Mushroom Leather Coral, Umbrella Coral, Sarcophyton Coral, and Mushroom Coral. When ordering this or any other leather coral, its best to make sure you use the scientific name.
Scientific name :
Family: Alcyoniidae
Species: Sarcophyton elegans
Status :
The Sarcophyton elegans is not listed on the IUCN Red List for Endangered Species.
Difficulty of Care :
Leather Coral Care: The Yellow Leather Coral S. elegans is moderate to hard to keep. They like a moderate water flow and high lighting. They are toxic toward other corals due to their release of terpenes (poisons used to ward off encroaching corals) and they do grow large, so they need plenty of space. Their tentacles come out when happy and make for a "fuzzy" look.
The flesh of the S. elegans is firm and soft, yet can be easily torn. It also tends to produce a lot of toxic compounds compared to other leathers, so care must be taken when handling. It is common for the S. elegans to retract their tentacles and develop a waxy look on their surface which is a periodic sloughing of the top layer of the skin. You can aid in the shedding by directing water flow for a short time to help whisk the mucus away.
Foods / Feeding :
Leather Coral Feeding: The Sarcophyton leathers have reduced digestive systems. They do not use mucus nets, nor are their tentacles designed to catch prey. To make up for this, they will warp their upper surface and direct water flow by forming ridges that lead to feathery pinnules on their tentacles. These feathery pinnules are designed to sieve the water for nutrients. They can also absorb dissolved organic matter, and have a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae known as zooxanthellae, where they also receive some of their nutrients.
Because these corals are photosynthetic, they receiving nutrients from the marine algae, zooxanthellae, that lives within their tissue so really do not need to be fed in mature systems. For maximum growth, more intense lighting is needed since this type of coral thrives on light, which supports its zooxanthellae.
Though it is often stated that the Yellow Leather Corals do better in tanks that have regular feedings, it is not because they benefit from direct feeding. Their digestive anatomy has not developed to capture larger foods (even "sand" sized). But with feedings of other corals, extra nutrients are inevitably added to the water and in turn do benefit this coral. The feathery pinnules at the top of their tentacles will sieve nutrients out of the water. These nutrients are especially important if the light is not on the higher end.
Aquarium Care :
Stable tank conditions are needed to keep the Sarcophyton genus. A water change that is a standard for any reef system, not to exceed 30% is needed. In general, a typical water change of 20% a month or 10% biweekly, depending on the bio load, is sufficient. Some have found success by doing a 5% water change once a week, keeping water quality high and reducing the need for most additives. Soft corals do need to have proper chemical levels for good growth.
Iodine is used up quickly in captive environments, and does need to be added to the top off water or to the tank regularly. Make sure you have a test to make sure your levels are sufficient. Frequent water changes are preferred over adding supplements other than those listed here.
Suggested levels for Sarcophyton species are:
-
Calcium: 385 - 450 ppm (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient. Anything over 400 tends to wear on pumps and other moving parts.)
-
Alkalinity: 3.2 - 4.8 MEQ/L (8 to 12 dKh - 10 is recommended)
-
Phosphates: 0, zero.
-
Magnesium: 1200 - 1350 ppm. (Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.)
-
Strontium: 8 - 10. Strontium levels are suggested to keep the coral happy, and a kit for testing proper levels is suggested.
Aquarium Parameters :
A typical live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Yellow Leather Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production and plenty of room to grow.
Provide proper lighting and water movement. They need a low to moderate water flow. Make sure the water flow does not shoot a straight hard stream directly at the coral, only random water current. They like moderate to high lighting, but if using metal halides, exposure should be indirect. The Sarcophytongenus is very aggressive toward other corals, like stony corals, so be sure to provide plenty of room between these and all other species.
-
Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallon (190 L) or larger
-
Marine Lighting: Moderate to high, indirect if using metal halides.
-
Temperature: 72° - 83° F (22° - 28° C)
-
Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025
-
Water Movement: Low to moderate, with a random flow is suggested.
-
Water Region: All areas of the aquarium.
-
Sex - Sexual differences :Sarcophyton males tend to be smaller than females, reaching 4 x 4 x 4" (11 x 11 x 11 cm) and become sexually mature in 6 to 8 years. The females will reach 24 x 24 x 24" (61 x 61 x 61 cm) and they reach sexual maturity at 8-10 years.
4- Yellow Toadstool Leather Coral
Gold-Crowned Leather Coral, Lacy-Head Leather Coral, Leather Sponge Mushroom, Leather Cup Coral
Sarcophyton tenuispiculatum
The Yellow Toadstool Leather is a large toadstool or mushroom coral crowned in yellow!
The Yellow Toadstool Leather Coral or Gold-Crowned Leather CoralSarcophyton tenuispiculatum is popular leather coral favorite in theSarcophyton genus. The Sarcophyton sp. have a thick smooth, single stalk with a flared, smooth mushroom-shaped top that can be folded or funnel-shaped.
Depending on the species, younger colonies are mushroom-shaped and mature colonies are more lobed and folded like a toadstool. Some keep the toadstool look their entire life. The flesh is firm and soft, yet can be easily torn. The "top" is called a capitulum and within that area are found autozooid polyps for feeding and siphonozooid polyps for water movement.
Like the other members of this genus, the S. tenuispiculatum resembles a mushroom or toadstool. It has a cream colored or tan, thick, smooth, single stalk and the capitulum has a disc or shallow bowl shape that houses tons of yellow, white or green tipped tentacles. Higher lighting can bring out a little brighter versions of color. The polyps can retract all the way, giving it a smooth look. When looking at the capitulum, there is a flatter area in the center with the "folds" being located more toward the edges.
The Yellow Toadstool Leather Coral is known by many common names including Gold-Crowned Leather Coral, Lacy-Head Leather Coral, Leather Sponge Mushroom, Leather Cup Coral, Toadstool Coral, Mushroom Coral. Because it is similar in form to other leathers, many of the same common names are used interchangeably such as Toadstool Leather Coral, Toadstool Mushroom Coral, Toadstool Mushroom Leather, Mushroom Leather Coral, Umbrella Coral, Sarcophyton Coral, and Mushroom Coral. When ordering this or any other leather coral, its best to make sure you use the scientific name.
The Yellow Toadstool Leather Coral is easy to keep and propagate, making it a great coral for the beginner. They like a low to moderate water flow and high lighting. For nutrition they use the symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae, that lives within their tissue, as well as extracting nutrients from the water. They do grow large and are very aggressive towards other corals, so they need plenty of space.
This is one of the hardiest of corals, yet the firm soft flesh of the Yellow Toadstool Leather Coral is easily torn. Also the Sarcophyton corals tend to produce a lot of toxic compounds compared to other leathers. They are toxic toward other corals due to their release of terpenes (poisons used to ward off encroaching corals). With the production of toxins and the delicate nature of its flesh, care must be taken when handling this species.
Scientific name:
Family: Alcyoniidae
Species: Sarcophyton tenuispiculatum
Status:
The Sarcophyton tenuispiculatum is not listed on the IUCN Red List for Endangered Species.
Difficulty of Care :
Leather Coral Care: The Yellow Toadstool Leather Coral S. tenuispiculatum is very easy to keep and propagate, making them a great coral for the beginner. They like a moderate water flow, medium to high lighting, and for nutrition they use the symbiotic algae, zooxanthellae, that lives within their tissue, as well as extracting nutrients from the water. They do grow large and are aggressive if allowed to touch other corals, so be sure to leave enough room between species.
The flesh of the S. tenuispiculatum is firm and soft, yet can be easily torn. It also tends to produce a lot of toxic compounds compared to other leathers, so care must be taken when handling. It is common for the S. tenuispiculatum to retract their tentacles and develop a waxy look on their surface which is a periodic sloughing of the top layer of the skin. You can aid in the shedding by directing water flow for a short time to help whisk the mucus away.
Foods / Feeding :
Leather Coral Feeding: The Sarcophyton leathers have reduced digestive systems. They do not use mucus nets, nor are their tentacles designed to catch prey. To make up for this, they will warp their upper surface and direct water flow by forming ridges that lead to feathery pinnules on their tentacles. These feathery pinnules are designed to sieve the water for nutrients. They can also absorb dissolved organic matter, and have a symbiotic relationship with a marine algae known as zooxanthellae, where they also receive some of their nutrients.
Because these corals are photosynthetic, they receiving nutrients from the marine algae, zooxanthellae, that lives within their tissue so really do not need to be fed in mature systems. For maximum growth, more intense lighting is needed since this type of coral thrives on light, which supports its zooxanthellae.
Though it is often stated that the Yellow Toadstool Leather Corals do better in tanks that have regular feedings, it is not because they benefit from direct feeding. Their digestive anatomy has not developed to capture larger foods (even "sand" sized). But with feedings of other corals, extra nutrients are inevitably added to the water and in turn do benefit this coral. The feathery pinnules at the top of their tentacles will sieve nutrients out of the water. These nutrients are especially important if the light is not on the higher end.
Aquarium Care :
Stable tank conditions are needed to keep the Sarcophyton genus. A water change that is a standard for any reef system, not to exceed 30% is needed. In general, a typical water change of 20% a month or 10% biweekly, depending on the bio load, is sufficient. Some have found success by doing a 5% water change once a week, keeping water quality high and reducing the need for most additives. Soft corals do need to have proper chemical levels for good growth.
Iodine is used up quickly in captive environments, and does need to be added to the top off water or to the tank regularly. Make sure you have a test to make sure your levels are sufficient. Frequent water changes are preferred over adding supplements other than those listed here.
Suggested levels for Sarcophyton species are:
-
Calcium: 385 - 450 ppm (Seachem makes a calcium additive that states 385 as sufficient. Anything over 400 tends to wear on pumps and other moving parts.)
-
Alkalinity: 3.2 - 4.8 MEQ/L (8 to 12 dKh - 10 is recommended)
-
Phosphates: 0, zero.
-
Magnesium: 1200 - 1350 ppm. (Magnesium makes calcium available, so if your calcium is low, check your magnesium levels before adding any more calcium.)
-
Strontium: 8 - 10. Strontium levels are suggested to keep the coral happy, and a kit for testing proper levels is suggested.
Aquarium Parameters :
A typical live rock/reef environment is what is needed for your Yellow Toadstool Leather Coral, along with some fish for organic matter production and plenty of room to grow.
Provide proper lighting and water movement. They need a low to moderate water flow and they like moderate to high lighting. Make sure the water flow does not shoot a straight hard stream directly at the coral, only random water current. The Sarcophyton genus is very aggressive toward other corals, like stony corals, so be sure to provide plenty of room between these and all other species.
-
Minimum Tank Size / Length: 50 gallon (190 L) or larger
-
Marine Lighting: High is recommended
-
Temperature: 72° - 83° F (22° - 28° C)
-
Salinity / Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025
-
Water Movement: Low to moderate, with a random flow is suggested.
-
Water Region: All areas of the aquarium.
-
Sex - Sexual differences:Males tend to be smaller than females, reaching 4 x 4 x 4" (11 x 11 x 11 cm) and become sexually mature in 6 to 8 years. The females will reach 24 x 24 x 24" (61 x 61 x 61 cm) and they reach sexual maturity at 8-10 years.
