Lobophytum crassum

von Marenzeller, 1886

Cabbage Coral

Range: Indo-West Pacific Ocean: Widespread.

Natural Environment: Inhabits shallow nutrient rich reef waters experiencing moderate water flow at depths between 20 to 65 feet (6 - 20 m).

General Husbandry: These small to medium size photosynthetic soft corals do better under low to medium light with moderate water movement.

Does not usually require hand feeding, as its nutrient requirements are met with nutrient absorption from surrounding waters and photosynthesis.

Needs sufficient space between its neighbors.

A good coral for beginners.

Taxonomy:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Cnidaria

Class: Anthozoa

Subclass: Octocorallia

Order: Anlcyonacea

Suborder: Alcyoniina

Family: Alcyoniidae

Genus: Lobophytum

FYI: Their body strengthening calcium carbonate sclerites can be seen through the skin tissue.

Easily propagated from cuttings.

Has separate male and female colonies and has external fertilization.

Mariculture specimens available in the trade.

Experience Level: Beginner

Diet: Photosynthetic/Absorption of nutrients

Temperament: Semi-aggressive

Aquarium Environment: Reef or fish-only aquarium

Coral Safe:With caution

Fish Safe: Yes

Invertebrate Safe: Yes

Acclimation Time: 30 minutes+

Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy

Calcium (Ca): 380 - 430 mg/l

Alkalinity: 2.5 - 3.0 meq/l

Phosphate (PO4): <0.05 mg/l

Magnesium (Mg): approx. 1350 mg/l (relate to specific gravity)

Strontium (Sr) 8 - 10 mg/l

Temperature Range: 72 - 81°F (22 - 27°C)

Minimum Tank Size: 50 gallons

Lighting: PAR 300 - 450

Water Movement: WM 2 - 3

Specific Gravity: 1.023 - 1.025

pH: 8.0 - 8.4

Iodine/Trace Elements Monitor/as necessary to maintain quality seawater.