Leather Coral
Lobophytum solidum
A hardy soft coral from New Caledonia, well-suited to reef beginners.
About
Found on tropical reefs off New Caledonia in the Western Central Pacific, Lobophytum solidum is a sessile soft coral in the leather coral group. New Caledonia itself is one of the most biodiverse marine regions in the Pacific, and soft corals like this one are a characteristic part of its reef communities. As a leather coral, it likely shares the general growth form typical of the Lobophytum genus. A lobed, leathery colony that expands when conditions are good and contracts or becomes waxy-looking when stressed or shedding its outer layer, which is normal behavior for the group. Leather corals in general are considered among the more forgiving soft corals for reef aquariums, tolerating a reasonable range of conditions without the fussiness of many stony corals. This species is reef safe and does not pose a significant threat to neighboring corals under normal circumstances, though like other soft corals it can release compounds into the water when disturbed. Source data on this particular species is limited, so if you are considering it, connecting with other keepers who have direct experience with New Caledonian Lobophytum would be worthwhile before committing to a specimen.
Similar species
Other coral you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Leather Coral
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- What does the Leather Coral eat?
- The Leather Coral is a filter feeder. It eats tiny particles suspended in the water and usually needs target feeding in a home tank.
- Is the Leather Coral reef safe?
- The Leather Coral is generally considered reef safe.