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Sclerophytum molle
A finger leather coral sold under its former name Sinularia mollis. It hosts zooxanthellae, grows on light and is easy to propagate by cuttings. A 2022 revision moved it from Sinularia to Sclerophytum.
This finger leather coral is usually sold under its former name Sinularia mollis; its current WoRMS name is Sclerophytum molle. In a major revision of octocoral classification, many finger leathers were moved from Sinularia to Sclerophytum and placed in the family Sarcophytidae; Sclerophytum flexibile on this site was treated the same way. It was described in 1926 as a variety of Sinularia polydactyla and is recorded from the Indo-Pacific, Japan and the Red Sea (Israel) (Reeflex). It hosts zooxanthellae and feeds on light; according to Reeflex it lives in shallow water at 1-12 m, grows to about 15 cm, is moderately easy to keep and is easy to propagate by cuttings. It is hard to tell from related species by appearance, so check the scientific name when buying. In Japan large online retailers repeatedly offer specimens, including ones from Okinawa.
The Soft Finger Leather Coral grows to Up to about 15 cm.
The ideal temperature for the Soft Finger Leather Coral is 24〜27℃.
Origin
Shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific (including Japan) and the Red Sea
Size
Up to about 15 cm
Temperature
24〜27℃
Photosynthesis (zooxanthellae) plus plankton
Sources: Reeflex (Sclerophytum molle) / WoRMS (Sclerophytum molle) / 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
Domestic law: Soft corals of this group are not included in the 'reef-building corals' whose collection Okinawa prohibits (stony corals, blue coral, sea fans and others). Collecting in the sea may still fall under fishing rights or prefectural fisheries rules, and taking designated species in marine park zones requires a permit (Natural Parks Act, Art. 22).
Not listed in the CITES Appendices (checked on Species+). Not designated as an Invasive Alien Species under Japanese law.
Sources: Species+ (CITES search) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Designated Invasive Alien Species / Okinawa Prefecture: Collection of reef-building corals is prohibited / e-Gov: Natural Parks Act (Art. 22, marine park zones)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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It hosts zooxanthellae and lives at 1-12 m (Reeflex). Give moderate or brighter light and adjust by how well the polyps open.
Give flow that sways the colony and keeps its surface clean, and attach it to rock with space from other corals.
24-27°C, salinity 33-35 ppt (SG 1.023-1.025); Reeflex gives 24-26°C.
Mainly photosynthetic, also taking plankton (Reeflex); it grows without special feeding.
Moderately easy and easy to propagate (Reeflex). It is sold under both old and new names, so confirm the species by scientific name.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Soft Finger Leather Coral is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
Soft Finger Leather Coral typically reaches Up to about 15 cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Soft Finger Leather Coral feeds on: Photosynthesis (zooxanthellae) plus plankton. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Soft Finger Leather Coral varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: October 2, 2026