Leather Coral
Sarcophyton latum
A beginner-friendly leather coral native to New Caledonian reefs.
About
Found on the tropical reefs of New Caledonia in the Western Central Pacific, Sarcophyton latum is a soft coral belonging to the leather coral group, a family well known for its durability and adaptability in captive systems. Like other sarcophytons, it is a sessile organism, meaning it spends its life anchored in place and feeds through a combination of photosynthesis via its zooxanthellae and the capture of particulate matter from the water column. Leather corals in this genus typically develop a distinctive mushroom-like or toadstool shape as they mature, with a smooth to ruffled cap that can expand noticeably when conditions are to its liking. One trait new keepers often notice is that leather corals periodically close up and develop a waxy coating as part of a natural shedding process. This is normal behavior and not a sign of trouble. The coral usually reopens and looks better after a few days. Given its beginner-friendly care level and tolerance for a range of conditions, it is a practical choice for those newer to keeping soft corals, and it does well under moderate lighting and flow. Source data for this species is limited, so specific behavioral details beyond what is typical for the genus remain sparse.
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.