Sarcophyton Elegans
Appearance: This wonderful soft coral is native to the Indo-Pacific (as the name implies). The coral's striking yellow coloration and frilled appearance differentiate it from the more common Sacrophytons such as Toadstools. Polyps are small and compact, the base is squat unlike the Toadstools which grows taller with a trunk like base. Like the other Sarcophytons this coral can grow very large and will eventually need a lot of space. In the wild the coral can be found on reef faces and crest in clear water and strong currents.
Care: With regard to husbandry Sacrophyton Elegans is more difficult than other Sacrophyton types. Intense lighting is required to maintain the yellow coloration. The coral will do better mid tank level directly under a fixture. Fiji leather appreciates mod to higher flow levels. Routine water changes are recommended to replace trace elements such as iodine an strontium. It's my experience that water temp 78-82 F is optimal, if the temperature of tank climbs above 82 F the coral often closes.
Fragging and Reproduction: Reproductive means include budding, spawning and lateral fission. Unfortunately this Sarcophyton is not as readily propagated as most leathers are. I have done it with success but other have reported that the manipulation was too stressful and the coral eventually succumbs to bacterial infections. It's recommended not to frag this coral within in the display secondary possible adverse reactions by other coral from the fluids released from Sarcophyton.
Considerations: Of note, this Sarcophyton is reported to release higher levels of terpenes, a chemical toxin that the Sarcophyton produces to keep neighboring corals at bay, chemical warfare. I have thus not had an issue but I do run charcoal and perform routine water changes.
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