Leather Corals (Sarcophyton / Sinularia / Lobophytum)

Taxonomy & Identity

Leather corals are a diverse group of soft corals known for their thick, leathery texture and impressive size. They include Toadstool Leathers (Sarcophyton), Finger Leathers (Sinularia), and Devil's Hand (Lobophytum). These hardy corals are excellent choices for beginners and can become dramatic centerpieces in reef aquariums.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

Leather corals are found throughout the Indo-Pacific region, inhabiting various reef zones from shallow lagoons to deeper slopes. They often grow on reef flats and sandy areas where they can reach impressive sizes. Different species occupy slightly different niches but all prefer areas with good water movement.

Morphology & Growth Forms

Sarcophyton (Toadstools) feature a thick stalk topped by a cap covered in polyps. Sinularia (Finger/Cabbage Leathers) grow as lobed or finger-like projections. Lobophytum (Devil's Hand) have thick lobes resembling fingers. All have a leathery texture and can grow quite large—some specimens exceed 2 feet in diameter. Colors include tan, green, yellow, and pink.

Lighting Requirements & Spectrum

• Intensity: Low to high
• Target PAR: 75–300

Leather corals are highly adaptable to various lighting conditions. They can thrive under modest lighting but will grow faster with more intense illumination. Some specimens develop better coloration under higher light. Acclimate gradually when moving to significantly brighter conditions.

Flow Requirements & Patterns

• Intensity: Moderate to high
• Type: Variable, turbulent

Good water flow is important for leather coral health. It aids in shedding their waxy coating (a natural process) and prevents detritus accumulation. Moderate to strong flow keeps polyps extended and the coral healthy. Avoid completely stagnant areas.

Nutrient Dynamics & Water Chemistry

Leather corals are very tolerant of water parameter variations. They often thrive in higher nutrient systems and can handle conditions that stress many other corals. Basic water quality maintenance is sufficient for success with these hardy species.

Feeding Biology & Symbiosis

Leather corals contain zooxanthellae and are primarily photosynthetic. They can capture small food particles when polyps are extended but don't require direct feeding.

• Primarily photosynthetic
• Can capture fine particulates
• Phytoplankton (optional)
• Coral foods (optional)

Direct feeding isn't necessary but occasional broadcast feeding of fine foods may enhance growth. Leather corals derive most nutrition from their symbiotic algae.

Common Diseases, Pests & Predators

• Generally very disease resistant
• May close for extended periods when shedding
• Some nudibranchs can prey on leather corals
• Tissue damage from aggressive neighbors

Leather corals periodically shed a waxy coating and may remain closed for days during this process—this is normal. Strong flow helps the shedding process. Pests are uncommon but inspect new additions carefully.

Compatibility & Placement

Leather corals release terpenes and other chemicals that can inhibit the growth of nearby stony corals. They require significant space and should not be placed near sensitive SPS corals. Running activated carbon helps mitigate chemical warfare effects.

• Best zone: Middle tank with room to grow
• Give space: 6+ inches; they grow large
• Chemical warfare: Run carbon if keeping with SPS
• Note: Can shade other corals as they grow

Fragging Techniques

Leather corals frag easily by cutting pieces from the parent colony with a sharp blade. Frags can be attached to plugs using rubber bands or toothpicks through the tissue. They heal quickly and establish readily. The parent colony recovers well from fragging.

Aquacultured Strains & Trade Names

Popular varieties include "Toadstool Leather" (Sarcophyton), "Yellow Fiji Leather," "Green Finger Leather" (Sinularia), "Devil's Hand" (Lobophytum), and "Cabbage Leather." Some specimens develop attractive green or yellow coloration. Most are aquacultured and very hardy.

Difficulty Rating & Summary

Difficulty: Beginner

Leather corals are excellent beginner soft corals that can grow into impressive showpieces. Their hardiness, adaptability, and dramatic size make them popular choices. Just remember to provide adequate space and consider their chemical effects on neighboring corals when planning placement.