Toadstool Leather Coral (Sarcophyton sp.) Care Guide

A hardy soft coral resembling a mushroom with a thick stalk and broad cap covered in tiny pulsing polyps. Can grow very large in aquariums.

Overview

Sarcophyton sp. is a species in the family Alcyoniidae. A hardy soft coral resembling a mushroom with a thick stalk and broad cap covered in tiny pulsing polyps. Can grow very large in aquariums. Periodically sheds a waxy coating to cleanse itself, during which polyps retract. Produces terpenes that can inhibit nearby corals.

Taxonomy

Family: Alcyoniidae
Genus: Sarcophyton
Scientific name: Sarcophyton sp.
Other names: Sarcophyton, Toadstool Coral
Origin: Indo-Pacific

Habitat

Sarcophyton species are soft "toadstool" leather corals of Indo-Pacific reefs, forming a stalk topped by a polyp-bearing crown. They rely on symbiotic algae for energy, periodically shed a surface film to remove debris, and tolerate a range of light and flow.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 100 L
Temperature: 24-27 °C
pH: 8.1-8.4
Salinity: SG 1.024-1.026
KH: 8-12 dKH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 10-40 cm
Lifespan: 10-30 years
Difficulty: beginner

Diet

Classified as herbivore. Recommended feeding frequency: photosynthetic. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Position in tank: bottom
Compatible tank mates: Clownfish, Tangs, Wrasses
Avoid with: SPS Corals

Reef compatibility

Generally classified as reef-safe: does not feed on stony or soft corals, tridacnid clams or ornamental shrimps under normal conditions.