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Leptoseris Coral is a visually captivating coral species known for its thin, plating growth form and vivid fluorescent coloration. Often referred to as “wrinkle corals,” Leptoseris develops smooth, undulating plates that encrust or form layered scrolls over rock surfaces. This coral is prized for its ability to thrive in lower light conditions, as well as its stunning range of colors including oranges, greens, purples, and blues, often with a glowing, iridescent quality under actinic lighting.
Native to deeper reef environments in the Indo-Pacific, Leptoseris corals are well-adapted to dimmer lighting and calm water flow. Their growth tends to be slower than many other SPS or LPS corals, but their low-maintenance nature and eye-catching appearance make them a popular choice for aquarists looking to diversify their reef displays.
🌊 Water Parameters
- Temperature: 75°F – 80°F (24°C – 27°C)
- Salinity (Specific Gravity): 1.025 – 1.026
- pH: 8.1 – 8.4
- Alkalinity: 8 – 12 dKH
- Calcium: 400 – 450 ppm
- Magnesium: 1250 – 1350 ppm
- Phosphate: < 0.03 ppm
- Nitrate: 2 – 10 ppm
- Ammonia & Nitrite: 0 ppm
💡 Lighting Requirements
Leptoseris corals thrive in low to moderate lighting, making them ideal for lower areas of the reef tank or under shaded regions. These corals rely on their symbiotic zooxanthellae for energy but do not require intense lighting, which makes them suitable for aquarists without high-powered lights.
Ideal Lighting Conditions:
-
PAR: 50–150
- Low light (50–100 PAR) is optimal for most varieties
- Higher PAR may cause bleaching or slow growth if not acclimated
- Spectrum: Blue-heavy light (14,000K–20,000K) enhances fluorescence
- Photoperiod: 8–10 hours per day with gradual light transitions
Lighting Options:
- LEDs: Dimmable LEDs are excellent for precision light control
- T5 Fluorescents: Effective for soft and even light distribution
- Shaded Areas of Stronger Lights: Can be used in SPS tanks under rock ledges or overhangs
🌬️ Flow Requirements
Leptoseris prefers low to moderate, indirect flow that gently moves water across its surface without disturbing its delicate tissues. Too much direct flow can erode tissue or inhibit polyp extension.
Ideal Flow Conditions:
- Flow Strength: Gentle, non-directional
- Flow Type: Alternating or diffused flow that prevents sediment buildup
Signs of Improper Flow:
- Too Much Flow: Tissue recession, loss of polyp extension
- Too Little Flow: Accumulation of detritus or algae on coral surface
🍽️ Feeding Requirements
While Leptoseris is primarily photosynthetic, it can benefit from occasional feeding of small-particle coral foods. Supplemental feeding supports brighter coloration and faster growth, especially in low-nutrient aquariums.
What to Feed:
- Finely powdered coral foods
- Amino acid supplements
- Microplankton or reef-safe particulate coral blends
Feeding Frequency:
- Light Feeding: Once a week
- Growth Feeding: 2–3 times per week, depending on system nutrients
📍 Placement Tips
- Placement in the Tank: Leptoseris corals are best placed on rock ledges, vertical surfaces, or low-light areas in the mid to lower portions of the tank. They encrust surfaces slowly and can shade themselves, so give them horizontal space to expand.
- Tankmates: Peaceful coral species are ideal neighbors. Avoid placing them too close to aggressive LPS or fast-growing SPS corals that could overshadow or sting them.
Care Tips:
- Acclimate slowly to changes in light and water chemistry
- Avoid excess detritus accumulation on their plating surface
- Regularly check that they are not being overtaken by faster-growing corals
