WWC Speckled Leather

Quick Stats

• Care Level: Easy
• Coral Type: Soft Coral
• Lighting Requirement: Medium (150-250 PAR)
• Flow: Low/Moderate
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Placement: Rockwork
• Approximate Purchase Size: 3/4"

Overview

The WWC Speckled Leather Coral is a soft coral with chocolate colored polyps. Also known as the Blushing Coral, if it is touched by fish, or other reef creatures, the polyps will close and the color will change from chocolate to the silver color of the coral tissue. Moments later, the polyps will reopen to show the chocolate colored polyps. It's a great coral for beginner reef hobbyists as it can handle parameter swings that many other coral cannot.

Note: This is not a WYSIWYG listing. Photo is a representation of the shape, size, and color of the coral you will receive.

Water Parameters

This coral thrives in stable water conditions with regular water changes. Routine water testing helps ensure these needs are consistently met.

• Specific Gravity (Salinity): 1.025-1.026
• Temperature: 75-78 Degrees F
• pH: 8.1-8.4
• Alkalinity: 8-9.5 dKH
• Calcium: 400-450ppm
• Magnesium: 1300-1450ppm
• Nitrate (NO3): 10-25ppm
• Phosphate: 0.01-0.1ppm
• Nitrite (NO2): Undetectable
• Ammonia (NH3): Undetectable

Lighting Requirements

This coral prefers medium light areas of the aquarium, ideally in the 150-250 PAR range. While it can handle slightly higher light, it's best to acclimate it gradually to avoid stress. For those with mixed reef tanks, a PAR meter is invaluable for fine-tuning light levels across different corals, helping ensure each coral gets the right intensity for its needs. This careful setup supports the coral’s vibrant color and long-term health.

Ideal Tank Placement

This coral is most often placed directly on the rockwork where it has access to medium light and low to moderate flow.

Water Flow Requirements

Gentle flow is ideal. Provide enough flow for the coral to sway in the current without blasting it directly.

Aggressiveness and Compatibility

This coral is peaceful and will not harm other nearby corals, however it should not be placed where it is in direct contact with neighboring corals.

Feeding and Nutrition

This coral primarily relies on photosynthesis for energy, but can benefit from occasional feedings with coral foods such as Reef Chili and Amino Acids like CoralAmino can enhance its growth and coloration.

Growth Rate and Pattern

This coral is a steady grower and has a tree-like growth pattern. Don't be alarmed if the coral shrinks up and seems to "shed" its outer layer on occasion.

Acclimation Process

Acclimation is essential for corals to adjust to their new environment. For a full step-by-step process, refer to our Coral Acclimation Guide.