
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Sclerophytum flexibile
A soft leather coral whose long finger-like branches hang in clusters. It depends on zooxanthellae, is also sold as spaghetti finger leather coral, and is a hardy beginner species.
Sclerophytum flexibile, described by Quoy and Gaimard in 1833, was long known as Sinularia flexibilis, and that older name is still almost universal in the trade. English names include flexible leather coral, slimy leather coral and spaghetti finger leather coral. Soft, elongated finger-like branches hang in clusters and sway in the current, which is its display appeal. It lives in Indo-Pacific reef environments, is zooxanthellate and draws energy from photosynthesis, and plays an important role in reef communities. The species is also studied for biologically active compounds with antimicrobial and pharmaceutical potential, and in the aquarium it releases chemicals that suppress nearby corals, so carbon and a skimmer are advisable. Care itself is easy, with moderate lighting and moderate or stronger flow suiting it.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The ideal temperature for the Sinularia Flexibilis is 24〜27℃.
Origin
Reef environments of the Indo-Pacific
Temperature
24〜27℃
Mainly photosynthesis via zooxanthellae
Moderate lighting. It depends on zooxanthellae, so avoid very dim conditions.
Sources: Wikipedia: Reef aquarium (water parameters) / AlgaeBarn: Keeping Sinularia Coral / AlgaeBarn: Reconsidering Soft Corals
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: Sclerophytum flexibile (Quoy & Gaimard, 1833)
Synonyms: Alcyonium flexibile, Alcyonium flexile, Danella flexibilis, Sinularia flexibilis, Sinularia flexilis
Authority databases: WoRMS
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Octocoral, order Malacalcyonacea (Sclerophytum flexibile, Sarcophytidae). Not listed by CITES: it belongs to none of Scleractinia, Antipatharia, Helioporidae, Tubiporidae, Milleporidae or Stylasteridae.
Sources: DOC NZ / CITES-listed corals (taxon not listed) / CITES Appendices
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Give moderate or stronger flow so sediment cannot collect between the branches; avoid direct jets.
24-27 C and 1.022-1.025 specific gravity. Its water chemistry demands are milder than a stony coral's.
It lives mainly on photosynthesis and rarely needs deliberate feeding.
It releases chemicals that suppress nearby corals; run carbon and a skimmer and keep other corals spaced apart.
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 Sinularia Flexibilis is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
Sinularia Flexibilis feeds on: Mainly photosynthesis via zooxanthellae. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Sinularia Flexibilis varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 16, 2026