Description

🪸 Description

Leptoseris is a genus of small-polyp stony (SPS) corals known for their encrusting or plating growth forms. They’re often found in deeper reef zones, including mesophotic (low-light) environments. These corals are appreciated in the reef-keeping community for their intricate patterns and subtle to vibrant coloration, often displaying hues of orange, green, purple, or gold.

Key Characteristics:

• Growth Form: Encrusting or plating, thin skeletal structure.

• Polyp Size: Very small (SPS coral).

• Color: Can be fluorescent under actinic/blue lighting (greens, oranges, pinks, purples).

• Habitat (Wild): Deep water reefs; shaded or low-light areas.

🧪 Tank Requirements

💡 Lighting Tips

Leptoseris thrives in lower light than many other SPS corals. Too much light can cause bleaching or color loss. Ideal placement is:

• Lower half of the tank

• Shaded areas or overhangs

• Avoid direct, intense LED or metal halide exposure

🌊 Flow Requirements

• Gentle to moderate flow helps keep detritus off the coral while allowing polyps to extend.

• Avoid blasting them directly with powerheads.

🍽️ Feeding

While primarily photosynthetic, Leptoseris can benefit from occasional feeding:

• Use fine particle coral foods (e.g., Reef-Roids, Coral Frenzy).

• Target feed at night when polyps are extended (optional but beneficial).

🔧 Care Tips

• Acclimate slowly to new lighting when introduced to your tank.

• Keep stable water chemistry — like other SPS, they’re sensitive to swings.

• Frag carefully — their skeleton is thin and brittle.

• Monitor for shading: they can plate over other corals or rocks.

⚠️ Common Issues

• Bleaching: Often due to excess light.

• Tissue recession: Can result from unstable water or poor flow.

• Pests: Not common, but check for flatworms or nudibranchs.