Description
Leather Toadstool – Lobophytum sarcophyton
Lobophytum sarcophyton, commonly known as toadstool leather coral, is a soft coral appreciated for its broad, mushroom-like shape and graceful polyp extension. Native to Indo-Pacific reefs, it adds movement, texture, and resilience to a wide range of reef aquarium setups.
Lighting: Moderate to high (100–250 PAR)
Flow: Moderate to strong, alternating
Placement: Middle to top of the tank
Temperature: 76–82°F (24–28°C)
Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Alkalinity: 8–12 dKH
Calcium: 400–450 ppm
Magnesium: 1200–1400 ppm
Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic; may absorb dissolved nutrients from the water column
Aggression: Low (produces mild allelopathic compounds)
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
Care Level: Easy
Compatibility: Peaceful and ideal for soft coral and mixed reef aquariums