Pectinia Lactuca (Lettuce Coral)

Pectinia Lactuca (Lettuce Coral) key facts

Care level

Advanced

Size

Colonies to several tens of cm

Temperature

24〜27℃

Diet

Mainly nutrition from symbiotic zooxanthellae, supplemented with fine to small particulate coral foods offered at night.

Lighting

LiveAquaria gives moderate lighting for Pectinia. Strong light makes the tissue retract, so place it from mid-height downwards and start at an even lower intensity.

Flow & Placement

Medium flow, randomised, because detritus collects between the plates. The plate edges are sharp and will injure neighbouring corals, so leave generous space.

Water Temperature & Quality

Water 24-26C, specific gravity 1.023-1.025, salinity 33-35 ppt, KH 8-12. It is intolerant of sudden swings and rising nutrients, so stability matters more than anything else.

Feeding

Most of its nutrition comes from its zooxanthellae. Feed small amounts of fine to small particulate coral food after lights-out; overfeeding raises nutrients and triggers tissue recession.

Notes

LiveAquaria rates the genus as difficult. The thin, sharp plates chip easily, and tissue can recede from a broken edge. As a scleractinian it is on CITES Appendix II.

About Pectinia Lactuca (Lettuce Coral)

Lettuce Coral is a Pectiniidae species known for its wavy, plate-like skeleton and green-to-brown coloration. It is considered an advanced-level coral requiring stable water conditions.

7 things to know before welcoming a Pectinia Lactuca (Lettuce Coral)

1. 1Suited to experienced keepers

   Lettuce Coral is sensitive to shifts in water quality and flow, and is considered an advanced-level species. It's best kept by aquarists with experience running a stable, mature reef tank. Avoid sudden environmental changes and monitor water parameters consistently.

2. 2Delicate, wavy plate structure

   Its defining feature is a series of thin, wavy plates with sharply pointed edges. While visually striking, this structure is physically delicate. When placing the coral or adjusting flow, avoid direct strong currents or equipment contact with the plates.

3. 3Nighttime sweeper tentacles

   Corals in the Pectiniidae family extend tentacles at night and may sting neighboring corals. Leave ample space between colonies when arranging your tank to prevent contact-related damage.

4. 4Coloration varies with tank conditions

   Coloration is typically green or brown, often deepening toward the center of the colony. Lighting intensity and water conditions can influence how the color appears, so observe how it settles in as the coral acclimates to your tank.

5. 5Balancing light and water flow

   As a reef-building coral, it relies on symbiotic algae for photosynthesis, but both excessive and insufficient light or flow can stress its tissue. After placement, observe its condition over time and fine-tune positioning as needed.

6. 6Colonies grow to tens of centimeters

   Colonies can grow to a diameter of several tens of centimeters. Plan ahead for its eventual size and place it where there is enough space and clearance from neighboring corals.

7. 7Check your tank setup beforehand

   Before bringing one home, confirm that your water parameters are stable and that your equipment can properly adjust lighting and flow. Since this is an advanced-level species, thorough preparation makes a significant difference to long-term success.

Frequently asked questions about Pectinia Lactuca (Lettuce Coral)

Q.Is this a good coral for beginners?

A.Lettuce Coral is considered an advanced-level species. It is sensitive to changes in water quality and flow, making it best suited to keepers experienced in maintaining a stable reef tank.

Q.Can it be placed close to other corals?

A.Pectiniidae corals extend stinging tentacles at night that can affect nearby colonies, so it's recommended to leave ample space between it and other corals.

Q.How large does it grow?

A.Colonies can reach a diameter of several tens of centimeters. When choosing a placement, it's worth accounting for future growth space.

Q.Why does its color vary between green and brown?

A.Coloration varies by individual and can also be influenced by lighting and water conditions, with the center of the colony often appearing darker.

Q.Is this species subject to any regulations?

A.Pectinia Lactuca (Lettuce Coral) is listed in CITES Appendix II. International trade requires a permit from the exporting country, but as far as CITES is concerned, no registration is needed to buy or sell individuals already legally in Japan.

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