
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Leptoseris yabei
A Leptoseris of laminar colonies in whorls, tiers or vase shapes, often over a metre across. Its corallites sit in rectangular pockets between radiating ridges and low walls parallel to the margin, which sets it apart from all other Leptoseris.
Leptoseris yabei is a stony coral of the family Agariciidae, described in 1976 as Pavona yabei and later moved to Leptoseris. It ranges from the Red Sea and Indian Ocean to Australia, Papua New Guinea and the New Zealand EEZ. Colonies are laminar, forming whorls, tiers or vase shapes, and are commonly over one metre across. The corallites sit in rectangular pockets formed between radiating ridges and low walls parallel to the frond margins; septo-costae are moderately exsert and alternate, and colonies are usually pale brown or yellowish, sometimes with white margins (Corals of the World). These rectangular pockets are unique to this species and distinguish it from other Leptoseris such as L. explanata. It usually grows on flat substrates and is uncommon but conspicuous. Reeflex notes that no successful long-term keeping has been reported yet. Specialist shops in Japan stock it by name from time to time.
The Yabe's Leptoseris grows to Wild colonies are commonly over 1 m across.
The ideal temperature for the Yabe's Leptoseris is 24〜27℃.
Origin
Red Sea and Indian Ocean to Australia and the western Pacific
Size
Wild colonies are commonly over 1 m across
Temperature
24〜27℃
Photosynthesis (zooxanthellae) plus plankton
Sources: Corals of the World (Leptoseris yabei) / Reeflex (Leptoseris yabei) / 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.
Primary sources
Accepted name: Leptoseris yabei (Pillai & Scheer, 1976)
Synonyms: Pavona yabei Pillai & Scheer, 1976, Coscinaraea foliata Nemenzo, 1979
Authority databases: WoRMS · GBIF · GBIF · WoRMS · Corals of the World
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Domestic law: Collecting in Japanese waters is governed by each prefecture's fisheries adjustment regulations, which differ by prefecture. Okinawa bans all collection of reef-building corals, including stony corals, and also bans possessing or selling illegally collected corals (cultured corals are exempt, and the prefecture advises buyers to confirm a coral is cultured, on an artificial base or tagged). Tokyo bans collection in the waters off Ogasawara Village. In marine park zones of national and quasi-national parks, taking designated animals and plants requires a permit (Natural Parks Act, Art. 22).
All stony corals (Scleractinia) are listed in CITES Appendix II (checked on Species+). International trade requires export permits, but no registration is needed to sell or transfer specimens within Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing of Leptoseris yabei) / Okinawa Prefecture: Collection of reef-building corals is prohibited / Tokyo Metropolitan Fisheries Adjustment Regulations (Arts. 37 and 41) / e-Gov: Natural Parks Act (Art. 22, marine park zones)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
It hosts zooxanthellae (Reeflex). Leptoseris are common in dim settings, so avoid intense light and start at moderate or lower levels.
It usually grows on flat substrates (Corals of the World). Lay it horizontally on a flat, stable spot with gentle flow so the thin plates do not break.
24-27°C, salinity 33-35 ppt (SG 1.023-1.025); Reeflex also gives 24-27°C.
Besides photosynthesis it takes plankton (Reeflex); feed small amounts of fine particulate food.
No successful long-term keeping has been reported (Reeflex). When buying, check that the corallites sit in rectangular pockets to separate it from other Leptoseris.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Yabe's Leptoseris is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
Yabe's Leptoseris typically reaches Wild colonies are commonly over 1 m across as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Yabe's Leptoseris feeds on: Photosynthesis (zooxanthellae) plus plankton. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Yabe's Leptoseris varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 30, 2026