Sarcophyton ehrenbergi

(von Marenzeller, 1886)

Dish-top Leather Coral, Toadstool Coral

Range: Indo-West Pacific Ocean: Indonesia to Tonga.

Natural Environment: Inhabits shallow reef flats and lagoons receiving moderate water movement.

General Husbandry: These photosynthetic broad column shaped corals with large mushroom shaped tops are among the easiest soft corals to maintain. Requires strong light and good water circulation. Occasional water surges seem to be quite beneficial.

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: Sarcophyton

FYI: Easily propagated from cuttings.

Mariculture specimens available in the trade.

Can reach 24 inch (61 cm) heights.

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: 68 - 81°F (20 - 27°C)

Minimum Tank Size: 150 gallons

Lighting: PAR 350 - 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.