Toadstool Leather Coral
The toadstool leather is a big, sculptural soft coral shaped like a mushroom cap on a stalk, with a surface of fine polyps that give it a suede look - a hardy, long-lived centrepiece that periodically sheds a waxy film to clean itself.
Last reviewed: July 2026
AI illustration Overview
The toadstool leather is a big, sculptural soft coral shaped like a mushroom cap on a stalk, with a surface of fine polyps that give it a suede look - a hardy, long-lived centrepiece that periodically sheds a waxy film to clean itself. (Sarcophyton species.)
Origin & Habitat
Indo-Pacific reefs, anchored to rock in moderate light and flow.
Appearance
A leathery tan, cream or green cap on a thick stalk; polyps extend into a soft fuzz and retract when disturbed or shedding.
Placement & Temperament
Peaceful, but large and it releases mild chemicals (allelopathy) that can bother nearby corals in small tanks - give it space and run good carbon and water changes.
Tank & Water Conditions
Salinity 1.024-1.026, 24-27°C, stable alkalinity 8-11 dKH, calcium 400-450, magnesium 1300-1350.
Lighting & Flow
Moderate light (about 75-150 PAR) and moderate flow.
Feeding
Photosynthetic; no target feeding required.
Health & Growth
Very hardy and long-lived. It periodically closes up and sheds a waxy surface film for a few days to shed algae and debris - normal maintenance, not illness.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Hardy, dramatic centrepiece
- Long-lived and low-maintenance
- Self-cleans by shedding
Cons
- Sheds and stays closed for days at a time
- Chemical warfare with corals in small tanks
- Gets large - plan space
Everyday gear for a reef tank
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Toadstool Leather Coral - frequently asked questions
My toadstool has been closed and slimy for days - is it dying?
Almost certainly shedding. Leathers close up and slough a waxy film periodically to clean themselves. Boost flow briefly to blow it off; it reopens in a few days.
Can I keep it near other corals?
Give it room. Leathers release mild compounds that can stunt neighbours in a small tank - space, carbon and water changes keep the peace.