Leathers & Soft Coral

Each polyp is connected by a flexible mat which is red to dark purple if Pachyclavularia sp. and lighter purple if Briareum sp. The mat may adhere strongly to rock or even a smooth surface like glass or plastic, but can also grow across the sand. Its growth rate may be very fast, and if placed too close to another coral it may grow right over it. Plenty of space should be provided to accommodate this future growth. If disturbed this coral may completely retract its polyps into the mat. Briareum sp. may occasionally shed a waxy sheet, which is a natural cleansing behavior. These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of fine zooplankton. Being highly adaptable and nearly pest and disease free makes them a great choice for beginners. Most coral eating fish will not touch them; any damage that may occur to the colony is typically re-grown with vigor. They may be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media, and to the over use of iodine. Occasionally blowing the colony with a baster or powerhead will help clear detritus from between the polyps and discourage nuisance algae.Star Polyp resembles its close relative Pipe Organ coral; the main difference is speed of growth. While Star Polyp grows very quickly, Pipe Organ grows much slower as it must construct a rigid tube for each polyp. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - High Average Placement: Low - Top Water Flow: Low - Strong Temperament: Peaceful Green Star Polyp is an all-time favorite which nearly every aquarist keeps at one time or another. It is affectionately known as “GSP” and is known for its intense emerald color, which fluoresces vividly under actinic lighting. The base of each tentacle is often deep pink, with a spot of stark white in the center of each polyp.

Read more less

Xenia corals do not possess stinging cells or even a full digestive system, relying heavily on dissolved nutrients in the water. Often times new aquariums (under 1 year) and those with high fish loads or frequent feedings provide the best conditions. It also contains photosynthetic algae within its tissues. Colonies may grow and divide by fission, as often as every 2 weeks. The animal may crawl over surfaces with its base, or let go completely and float to a new location. It prefers to attach to rocks or glass in a vertical position, but may grow nearly anywhere.Its pulsing behavior is not fully understood; colonies may pulse rapidly or cease completely, only to begin again later when conditions suit it. The movement may be based on feeding or respiration, as the coral lacks the fully functioning ciliary action that many other corals possess.While Xenia corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. It has few pests aside from syllid worms. We recommend every coral be dipped before being placed in a display aquarium.Pumping Xenia, or Pulsing coral, is a popular choice for new aquarists. Its charming appearance is enhanced by its mysterious habit of rhythmically pulsing its polyps, adding a delightful element to the reef. Its stalk is typically a light tan color with darker “feathers” on its polyps, which are held on branches which may be long or stout. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Medium Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

Clove, or Glove coral, is a colony of polyps which resembles a thriving garden of flowers, or a forest of tiny palm trees. Each polyp is connected at its base, and will continue to expand the colony by multiplying. The polyps may be delicate pink to tan, sometimes with stripes of green which may fluorescence under actinic lighting.Clove corals do not possess stinging cells, relying on the photosynthetic algae within their tissues and the absorption of dissolved nutrients in the water to provide them with energy. It is an undemanding coral well suited for the beginner or advanced reefer. It is seldom bothered by pests or fish, making it well suited to almost any aquarium.Occasionally blowing the colony with a baster or powerhead will help clear detritus from between the polyps and discourage nuisance algae. It is quite peaceful, and may actually resist the stings of some other corals. They may be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Medium Lighting: Medium Average Placement: Middle - High Water Flow: Medium - Strong Temperament: Peaceful

Read more less

Tiny shimmering polyps painted in sapphire and emerald, this coral is a true gem. It blankets the rock with glittering colors, shining with a luster all its own. It is quite uncommon, yet very easy to care for, which makes it a very special addition to nearly any aquarium.Sympodium is related to Anthelia and Xenia- they do not possess stinging cells, relying on the photosynthetic algae within their tissues and the absorption of dissolved nutrients in the water to provide them with energy. It is an undemanding coral well suited for the beginner or advanced reefer. It is seldom bothered by fish, and has few pests aside from syllid worms. We recommend every coral be dipped before being placed in a display aquarium.Occasionally blowing the colony with a baster or powerhead will help clear detritus from between the polyps and discourage nuisance algae. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Medium Lighting: Medium Average Placement: Bottom - Top Water Flow: Medium Temperament: Peaceful

Read more less

The thin calcite tubes created by this coral are very light-weight and may be blown away if the water current is too strong. Care must also be taken when handling the skeleton as it is easily crushed. Once settled in however it makes a very hardy addition. These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of zooplankton. Being highly adaptable and nearly pest and disease free makes them a great choice for beginners.Pipe Organ coral is composed of gorgeous flower-like polys emerging from contrasting scarlet tubes resembling that of a musical instrument. Its polyps may be shades of mint or lime to nearly stark white. The polyps may be long or short, and when fully emerged they obscure the tubes when viewed from the top. It resembles its close relative the Star Polyp, but grows much more slowly. This may be desirable when space is at a premium. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Medium Lighting: Medium - High Average Placement: Middle - High Water Flow: Low - Strong Temperament: Peaceful

Read more less

These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of phytoplankton. Specimens collected from the South Pacific have much more vivid colors than those from Indonesia.While leather corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. They occasionally retract all polyps and develop a waxy sheet over the surface which makes them look wet underwater; this is a natural cleansing behavior. Given good water flow the sheet will be shed into the water and the polyps will re-emerge. The sheet will break down naturally, but should be removed if seen floating in the water or if it covers another coral.Once established this coral is very hardy, but it may be prone to several types of pests. Snails such as the rapa rapa, little egg cowrie, nudibranches, and worms such as syllid worms (among others) may prey on soft corals. We recommend every coral be dipped before placed in a display aquarium. Leather corals may also be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media.This easy to keep coral grows as delightful ruffles extending a few inches from the rock. It comes in shades of tan to pink with tiny polyps scattered sporadically over its surface and along the edges of its ruffles. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Medium - Strong Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

The Yellow Leather is more commonly known as the Fiji Gold Toadstool, and adds dazzling color and texture to the reef. It is a spectacular yellow hue with equally saturated polyps. It’s cap often grows in a distinct ruffled shape.The Yellow Leather is unique in that it reacts very negatively to being touched, in many cases developing brown infection which is difficult to cure. It should only be handled via the rock it is attached to, and should be given enough space around it to allow for full expansion, and supplied with sufficient water flow to prevent deflation. It does not respond well to fragging, but if an attempt must be made it should be done via restriction, not cutting. It demands higher light levels than most other leather corals, but is a rewarding animal when given proper care.These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of phytoplankton.While leather corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. They occasionally retract all polyps and develop a waxy sheet over the surface which makes them look wet underwater; this is a natural cleansing behavior. Given good water flow the sheet will be shed into the water and the polyps will re-emerge. The sheet will break down naturally, but should be removed if seen floating in the water or if it covers another coral.Once established this coral tends to be quite hardy, but may be prone to several types of pests. Snails such as the rapa rapa and little egg cowrie, nudibranches, and worms such as syllid worms, among others, may prey on soft corals. We recommend every coral be dipped before placed in a display aquarium. Leather corals may also be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media. Difficulty: Intermediate Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Medium - High Average Placement: Middle Water Flow: Medium - High Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of phytoplankton. Specimens collected from the South Pacific have much more vivid colors than those from Indonesia.While leather corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. They occasionally retract all polyps and develop a waxy sheet over the surface which makes them look wet underwater; this is a natural cleansing behavior. Given good water flow the sheet will be shed into the water and the polyps will re-emerge. The sheet will break down naturally, but should be removed if seen floating in the water or if it covers another coral.Once established this coral is very hardy, but it may be prone to several types of pests. Snails such as the rapa rapa, little egg cowrie, nudibranches, and worms such as syllid worms (among others) may prey on soft corals. We recommend every coral be dipped before placed in a display aquarium. Leather corals may also be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media.This popular coral has a cap covered in countless polyps sitting atop a tall stalk which resembles a toadstool mushroom. Its color may vary, but either the coral, its polyps or both may be bright shades of yellow or green. It may grow quite large, at which point the cap may take on a ruffled shape. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Medium - Strong Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

Xenia corals do not possess stinging cells or even a full digestive system, relying heavily on dissolved nutrients in the water. Often times new aquariums (under 1 year) and those with high fish loads or frequent feedings provide the best conditions. It also contains photosynthetic algae within its tissues. Colonies may grow and divide by fission, as often as every 2 weeks. The animal may crawl over surfaces with its base, or let go completely and float to a new location. It prefers to attach to rocks or glass in a vertical position, but may grow nearly anywhere.Its pulsing behavior is not fully understood; colonies may pulse rapidly or cease completely, only to begin again later when conditions suit it. The movement may be based on feeding or respiration, as the coral lacks the fully functioning ciliary action that many other corals possess.While Xenia corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. It has few pests aside from syllid worms. We recommend every coral be dipped before being placed in a display aquarium.Pompom Xenia, or Pulsing coral, is a popular choice for new aquarists. Its charming appearance is enhanced by its mysterious habit of rhythmically pulsing its polyps, adding a delightful element to the reef. Its stalk is typically a white to light tan color with clustered polyps on very short branches. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Medium Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of phytoplankton. Specimens collected from the South Pacific have much more vivid colors than those from Indonesia.While leather corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. They occasionally retract all polyps and develop a waxy sheet over the surface which makes them look wet underwater; this is a natural cleansing behavior. Given good water flow the sheet will be shed into the water and the polyps will re-emerge. The sheet will break down naturally, but should be removed if seen floating in the water or if it covers another coral.Once established this coral is very hardy, but it may be prone to several types of pests. Snails such as the rapa rapa, little egg cowrie, nudibranches, and worms such as syllid worms (among others) may prey on soft corals. We recommend every coral be dipped before placed in a display aquarium. Leather corals may also be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media.Spaghetti leather is notable for its extremely long, flexible branches, which grow longer than any other leather coral. It is a bright shade of green which may fluorescence under actinic lighting. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Medium - Strong Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of phytoplankton. Specimens collected from the South Pacific have much more vivid colors than those from Indonesia.While leather corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. They occasionally retract all polyps and develop a waxy sheet over the surface which makes them look wet underwater; this is a natural cleansing behavior. Given good water flow the sheet will be shed into the water and the polyps will re-emerge. The sheet will break down naturally, but should be removed if seen floating in the water or if it covers another coral.Once established this coral is very hardy, but it may be prone to several types of pests. Snails such as the rapa rapa, little egg cowrie, nudibranches, and worms such as syllid worms (among others) may prey on soft corals. We recommend every coral be dipped before placed in a display aquarium. Leather corals may also be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media.This popular coral has a cap covered in countless polyps sitting atop a tall stalk which resembles a toadstool mushroom. Its color may vary from light tan to pink. It may grow quite large, at which point the cap may take on a ruffled shape. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Medium - Strong Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of phytoplankton. Specimens collected from the South Pacific have much more vivid colors than those from Indonesia.While leather corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. They occasionally retract all polyps and develop a waxy sheet over the surface which makes them look wet underwater; this is a natural cleansing behavior. Given good water flow the sheet will be shed into the water and the polyps will re-emerge. The sheet will break down naturally, but should be removed if seen floating in the water or if it covers another coral.Once established this coral is very hardy, but it may be prone to several types of pests. Snails such as the rapa rapa, little egg cowrie, nudibranches, and worms such as syllid worms (among others) may prey on soft corals. We recommend every coral be dipped before placed in a display aquarium. Leather corals may also be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media.This popular coral has a cap covered in countless polyps sitting atop a tall stalk which resembles a toadstool mushroom. Its color may vary, but either the coral, its polyps or both may be bright shades of yellow or green. It may grow quite large, at which point the cap may take on a ruffled shape. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Medium - Strong Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of phytoplankton. Specimens collected from the South Pacific have much more vivid colors than those from Indonesia.While leather corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. They occasionally retract all polyps and develop a waxy sheet over the surface which makes them look wet underwater; this is a natural cleansing behavior. Given good water flow the sheet will be shed into the water and the polyps will re-emerge. The sheet will break down naturally, but should be removed if seen floating in the water or if it covers another coral.Once established this coral is very hardy, but it may be prone to several types of pests. Snails such as the rapa rapa, little egg cowrie, nudibranches, and worms such as syllid worms (among others) may prey on soft corals. We recommend every coral be dipped before placed in a display aquarium. Leather corals may also be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media.The Devil’s Hand leather has a distinctive shape which resembles both a finger leather and a toadstool. It grows on a stalk with a flat cap, resembling the palm of a hand, sprouting out of which are branches, or fingers. It may be shades of tan to muted yellow, sometimes with contrasting colored polyps. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Medium - Strong Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of phytoplankton. Specimens collected from the South Pacific have much more vivid colors than those from Indonesia.While leather corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. They occasionally retract all polyps and develop a waxy sheet over the surface which makes them look wet underwater; this is a natural cleansing behavior. Given good water flow the sheet will be shed into the water and the polyps will re-emerge. The sheet will break down naturally, but should be removed if seen floating in the water or if it covers another coral. Once established this coral is very hardy, but it may be prone to several types of pests. Snails such as the rapa rapa, little egg cowrie, nudibranches, and worms such as syllid worms (among others) may prey on soft corals. We recommend every coral be dipped before placed in a display aquarium. Leather corals may also be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media.Kenya Tree is one of the most popular corals, especially for new aquarists. It may come in nearly any shade of tan to pink, with polyps typically a deeper shade. It grows from a stalk with branches extending outward, like a tree. It may be mistaken for Colt coral, but can be differentiated by its firmer feel to the touch and less flexible branches. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Low - Medium Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of phytoplankton. Specimens collected from the South Pacific have much more vivid colors than those from Indonesia.While leather corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. They occasionally retract all polyps and develop a waxy sheet over the surface which makes them look wet underwater; this is a natural cleansing behavior. Given good water flow the sheet will be shed into the water and the polyps will re-emerge. The sheet will break down naturally, but should be removed if seen floating in the water or if it covers another coral.Once established this coral is very hardy, but it may be prone to several types of pests. Snails such as the rapa rapa, little egg cowrie, nudibranches, and worms such as syllid worms (among others) may prey on soft corals. We recommend every coral be dipped before placed in a display aquarium. Leather corals may also be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media.The Devil’s Hand leather has a distinctive shape which resembles both a finger leather and a toadstool. It grows on a stalk with a flat cap, resembling the palm of a hand, sprouting out of which are branches, or fingers. It may be shades of tan to muted yellow, sometimes with contrasting colored polyps. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Medium - Strong Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of phytoplankton. Specimens collected from the South Pacific have much more vivid colors than those from Indonesia.While leather corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. They occasionally retract all polyps and develop a waxy sheet over the surface which makes them look wet underwater; this is a natural cleansing behavior. Given good water flow the sheet will be shed into the water and the polyps will re-emerge. The sheet will break down naturally, but should be removed if seen floating in the water or if it covers another coral. Once established this coral is very hardy, but it may be prone to several types of pests. Snails such as the rapa rapa, little egg cowrie, nudibranches, and worms such as syllid worms (among others) may prey on soft corals. We recommend every coral be dipped before placed in a display aquarium. Leather corals may also be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media.Kenya Tree is one of the most popular corals, especially for new aquarists. It may come in nearly any shade of tan to pink, with polyps typically a deeper shade. It grows from a stalk with branches extending outward, like a tree. It may be mistaken for Colt coral, but can be differentiated by its firmer feel to the touch and less flexible branches. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Low - Medium Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of phytoplankton. Specimens collected from the South Pacific have much more vivid colors than those from Indonesia.While leather corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. They occasionally retract all polyps and develop a waxy sheet over the surface which makes them look wet underwater; this is a natural cleansing behavior. Given good water flow the sheet will be shed into the water and the polyps will re-emerge. The sheet will break down naturally, but should be removed if seen floating in the water or if it covers another coral.Once established this coral is very hardy, but it may be prone to several types of pests. Snails such as the rapa rapa, little egg cowrie, nudibranches, and worms such as syllid worms (among others) may prey on soft corals. We recommend every coral be dipped before placed in a display aquarium. Leather corals may also be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media.The Devil’s Hand leather has a distinctive shape which resembles both a finger leather and a toadstool. It grows on a stalk with a flat cap, resembling the palm of a hand, sprouting out of which are branches, or fingers. It may be shades of tan to muted yellow, sometimes with contrasting colored polyps. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Medium - Strong Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of phytoplankton. Specimens collected from the South Pacific have much more vivid colors than those from Indonesia.While leather corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. They occasionally retract all polyps and develop a waxy sheet over the surface which makes them look wet underwater; this is a natural cleansing behavior. Given good water flow the sheet will be shed into the water and the polyps will re-emerge. The sheet will break down naturally, but should be removed if seen floating in the water or if it covers another coral. Once established this coral is very hardy, but it may be prone to several types of pests. Snails such as the rapa rapa, little egg cowrie, nudibranches, and worms such as syllid worms (among others) may prey on soft corals. We recommend every coral be dipped before placed in a display aquarium. Leather corals may also be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media.This popular coral is kept by nearly every aquarist at some point. It has an exceptionally soft texture and flexible branches which move easily in the current. It may come in nearly any shade of tan to pink, with polyps typically a deeper shade. It may be mistaken for Kenya Tree, but can easily be told apart by its slimy feel to the touch. Unlike most other soft corals, the Colt coral does not tolerate fresh water dips- cleansing products such as Coral RX Coral Dip should be used when necessary instead. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Low - Medium Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of phytoplankton. Specimens collected from the South Pacific have much more vivid colors than those from Indonesia.While leather corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. They occasionally retract all polyps and develop a waxy sheet over the surface which makes them look wet underwater; this is a natural cleansing behavior. Given good water flow the sheet will be shed into the water and the polyps will re-emerge. The sheet will break down naturally, but should be removed if seen floating in the water or if it covers another coral.Once established this coral is very hardy, but it may be prone to several types of pests. Snails such as the rapa rapa, little egg cowrie, nudibranches, and worms such as syllid worms (among others) may prey on soft corals. We recommend every coral be dipped before placed in a display aquarium. Leather corals may also be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media.This easy to keep coral grows as delightful ruffles extending a few inches from the rock. It comes in shades of tan to pink with tiny polyps scattered sporadically over its surface and along the edges of its ruffles. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Medium - Strong Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

Xenia corals do not possess stinging cells or even a full digestive system, relying heavily on dissolved nutrients in the water. Often times new aquariums (under 1 year) and those with high fish loads or frequent feedings provide the best conditions. It also contains photosynthetic algae within its tissues. Colonies may grow and divide by fission, as often as every 2 weeks. The animal may crawl over surfaces with its base, or let go completely and float to a new location. It prefers to attach to rocks or glass in a vertical position, but may grow nearly anywhere.Its pulsing behavior is not fully understood; colonies may pulse rapidly or cease completely, only to begin again later when conditions suit it. The movement may be based on feeding or respiration, as the coral lacks the fully functioning ciliary action that many other corals possess.While Xenia corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. It has few pests aside from syllid worms. We recommend every coral be dipped before being placed in a display aquarium.This variety is quite uncommon, but once seen will never be forgotten. The color shimmers a delicate lavender, unlike any other coral. Its stalks can grow quite long, and the polyps are a lighter shade of the same hue. Its beauty is accentuated by its mysterious habit of rhythmically pulsing its polyps, creating a dazzling display. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Medium Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less

These corals receive most of their energy by utilizing the photosynthetic algae contained within their tissues. They will also benefit from occasional feedings of phytoplankton. Specimens collected from the South Pacific have much more vivid colors than those from Indonesia.While leather corals have non-stinging tentacles, it is possible for them to release potent chemicals into the water which adversely affect the growth of stony corals; the use of carbon filtration (changed frequently) and regular water changes can minimize this. They occasionally retract all polyps and develop a waxy sheet over the surface which makes them look wet underwater; this is a natural cleansing behavior. Given good water flow the sheet will be shed into the water and the polyps will re-emerge. The sheet will break down naturally, but should be removed if seen floating in the water or if it covers another coral.Once established this coral is very hardy, but it may be prone to several types of pests. Snails such as the rapa rapa, little egg cowrie, nudibranches, and worms such as syllid worms (among others) may prey on soft corals. We recommend every coral be dipped before placed in a display aquarium. Leather corals may also be sensitive to the aluminum oxide in some phosphate-absorbing media.Long Finger Leather grows from a stalk with many long branches which are quite flexible and can move in the current. It comes in subtle shades of green to yellow. Difficulty: Easy Growth Speed: Fast Lighting: Low - Medium Average Placement: Low - Middle Water Flow: Medium - Strong Temperament: Semi-Aggressive

Read more less