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Sarcophyton sp.
Soft coral with large mushroom-shaped cap. Hardy and fast-growing. Periodically sheds mucus to remove old tissue.
Leather corals (genera Sinularia, Sarcophyton, family Alcyoniidae) are soft corals named for their leathery texture, found widely on shallow Indo-Pacific reefs in mushroom, finger, and lobed growth forms. Their small polyps are typically white, green, or brown. These corals periodically shed their outer skin layer—a normal detoxification process. They are hardy and forgiving, thriving under moderate lighting (150–250 PAR) and moderate flow. Activated carbon and protein skimming are recommended as they release terpenoid compounds that can inhibit neighboring corals. Propagation via fragging is straightforward, making them ideal beginner corals.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Leather Coral lives 15+ years with proper care.
The ideal temperature for the Leather Coral is 24〜27℃.
Origin
shallow tropical reefs of the Indo-Pacific
Lifespan
15+ years with proper care
Temperature
24〜27℃
Primarily photosynthesis
Sources: AlgaeBarn: SPS/LPS/soft care / AlgaeBarn: Water Parameters 101
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Sarcophyton sp. Lesson, 1834
Synonyms: Areocella, Sarcophytum
Authority databases: WoRMS
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Octocorallia (Sarcophyton, Alcyoniidae = Toadstool coral). Soft coral = Not listed on CITES.
Sources: DOC NZ / CITES-listed corals (Alcyoniidae family not included)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Grows vigorously under moderate lighting (150-250 PAR). LED lighting works well, and placing it around the middle of the tank makes it easy to match the light level.
Provide moderate flow. It spreads into a large mushroom shape, so give it a wide spot with room to grow and keep it from touching other corals.
Keep the water at 24-27C. It secretes terpene compounds, so running activated carbon to remove them limits the impact on other corals.
Periodically releases mucus — normal behavior
Releases chemicals — protein skimmer recommended
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Leather Coral is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Leather Coral is 15+ years with proper care. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Leather Coral feeds on: Primarily photosynthesis. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Leather Coral varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026