Umbrella Leather Coral

Sarcophyton trocheliophorum forms a broad, ruffled mushroom-shaped disc atop a distinctive stalk, covered in retractable polyps that range from cream to golden-brown depending on zooxanthellae density. A hardy and visually impressive coral that can grow into a dominant specimen in medium to large reef tanks. It releases terpene compounds when stressed or after handling, so activated carbon and a quality skimmer are recommended for neighbouring coral health.

Place on open sand or a wide rock shelf with medium flow and medium-to-high lighting. May close up for days after handling — this is normal. Run activated carbon after any new introduction or observed stress. Feed dissolved amino acids or reef snow for supplemental nutrition. Target 24–27°C, SG 1.023–1.025, dKH 8–10.