Comprehensive Guide to Soft Corals for Saltwater Aquariums: Identification, Care, and Tips

1. Mushrooms (Corallimorphs)

• Identification: These corals have a smooth, fleshy appearance and can come in various colors and patterns. They resemble mushrooms, hence the name.
• Water Quality: They tolerate a wide range of water conditions but prefer stable parameters.
• Lighting: Low to moderate. They can thrive under less intense lighting, making them suitable for tanks with lower light levels.
• Flow: Low to moderate. They do not require strong water flow and can be placed in various parts of the tank.
• Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic but can benefit from occasional target feeding with small meaty foods or coral foods.
• Buying Tips: Look for bright colors and a healthy, open appearance. Avoid corals that look slimy or have closed polyps.
• Pros: Hardy and easy to care for. They come in LOTS of different colors and textures and are really beautiful addition to any tank. Since they don't have such difficult requirements they are a very good beginner coral. 
• Cons: Can spread quickly and take over the tank if not managed.

2. Zoanthids (Zoas)

• Identification: Zoanthids are small, colonial corals with individual polyps connected by a mat-like tissue. They come in a vast array of colors.
• Water Quality: Moderate to high. Stable water parameters are ideal.
• Lighting: Moderate to high. They can adapt to various lighting conditions but show the best coloration under higher light.
• Flow: Moderate. They enjoy a gentle to moderate water flow that keeps them clean.
• Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic, but they can absorb nutrients from the water and benefit from occasional feeding.
• Buying Tips: Choose zoanthids with open, full polyps and vibrant colors. Avoid colonies with closed polyps or visible pests.
• Pros: The come in what seems like an unlimited variety of colors and patterns, and they relatively easy to care for.
• Cons: Some species can release toxins (palitoxin) which can be harmful if not handled properly. About 15 yeras ago retailers started "naming" the different zoanthid. The just make up a name for a color pattern and then sell is for 10x more than they should cost. It is confusing because people make up several different names for the exact same color pattern. This is a shame for the hobbyist as it make many color morphs our of peoples price range. It has, however, allowed people to propagate the corals for a living and aquaculture of this corals is extremely common because of this.

3. Leather Corals

Leather corals are a diverse group with several popular types, each with its unique characteristics and needs.

• Toadstool Leather Coral

  • Identification: Features a smooth, mushroom-like cap with small polyps extending from the surface.
  • Water Quality: High. Prefer stable, clean water conditions.
  • Lighting: Moderate to high.
  • Flow: Moderate to high.
  • Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic, benefit from occasional feeding.
  • Buying Tips: Look for firm, open caps with extended polyps.
  • Pros: Easy to care for, grows quickly. There are several beautiful colorations such as the green tipped variety.
  • Cons: Can release chemicals that inhibit other corals' growth. I usually run carbon in my tank to combat any toxins released by any corals and change it on a regular basis.

• Finger Leather Coral

  • Identification: Characterized by its finger-like projections.
  • Water Quality: High.
  • Lighting: Moderate to high.
  • Flow: Moderate to high.
  • Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic.
  • Buying Tips: Choose corals with extended polyps and a firm structure.
  • Pros: Hardy and adaptable. This have limitd coloration but the polyps are quite nice when the corals are healthy.
  • Cons: May release toxins affecting other corals. Again, I just run carbon anytime I have a soft coral in my tank.

• Cabbage Leather Coral

  • Identification: Resembles the leaves of a cabbage with its broad, ruffled appearance.
  • Water Quality: High.
  • Lighting: Moderate to high.
  • Flow: Moderate to high.
  • Feeding: Photosynthetic.
  • Buying Tips: Look for a firm texture and open polyps.
  • Pros: Easy to care for. There is a neon green version of this coral that is simply stunning. I try to add it to all of my tanks!
  • Cons: Can grow and spread fast and can overshadow smaller corals.

• Cauliflower Coral

  • Identification: Features a bushy appearance with cauliflower-like heads.
  • Water Quality: High.
  • Lighting: Moderate to high.
  • Flow: Moderate to high.
  • Feeding: Photosynthetic.
  • Buying Tips: Look for healthy, extended polyps.
  • Pros: Attractive and unique.
  • Cons: Requires stable conditions. This is more of an advanced soft coral so it is less common in tanks. When most people are ready for corals that require more care they usually jump to LPS.

• Carnation Tree Coral

  • Identification: Known for its bright colors and tree-like structure.
  • Water Quality: High.
  • Lighting: Low to moderate.
  • Flow: Moderate to high.
  • Feeding: Non-photosynthetic, requires regular feeding.
  • Buying Tips: Look for vibrant colors and extended polyps.
  • Pros: Striking appearance.
  • Cons: Difficult to care for, requires regular feeding. I have never attempted one of these corals because of its low success rate in captivity.

• Kenya Tree Coral

  • Identification: Branching structure resembling a small tree. They are typically pinkish-brown.
  • Water Quality: High. Stable and clean water is preferred.
  • Lighting: Moderate to high. They thrive under good lighting conditions.
  • Flow: Moderate. They enjoy moderate water movement.
  • Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic.
  • Buying Tips: Choose healthy, upright corals with extended polyps.
  • Pros: Hardy and easy to propagate.
  • Cons: Can spread quickly and overshadow other corals. I ALWAYS recommend people avoid this coral if they want a "reef" tank. This coral will absolutely take over your tank and overshadow any other coral you add. Don't get it and think it will be easy to remove in the future.

4. Green Star Polyps (GSP)

• Identification: Bright green polyps on a purple mat. They are fast-growing and can cover large areas.
• Water Quality: Moderate to high. Stable parameters preferred.
• Lighting: Moderate to high. They can thrive under various lighting conditions.
• Flow: Moderate to high. Good water flow keeps them clean and healthy.
• Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic but benefit from occasional feeding.
• Buying Tips: Choose frags with vibrant, open polyps. Avoid pieces with closed or retracted polyps.
• Pros: Fast-growing and hardy. This has got to be one of my favorite beginner corals. There are a few different colors variations. I love that they just sway back and forth giving movement to the tank. 
• Cons: Can quickly overgrow and smother other corals if not managed. I usually add mine to the back glass or on a rock that is COMPLETELY separate from the other rocks in your tank so it can't easily spread and take over all of your surfaces.

5. Palythoas (Palys)

• Identification: Similar to zoanthids but larger and often more robust. They come in various colors and patterns.
• Water Quality: Moderate to high. Prefer stable conditions.
• Lighting: Moderate to high. They adapt to different lighting but show best colors under good light.
• Flow: Moderate. Enjoy moderate water movement.
• Feeding: Primarily photosynthetic, with occasional feeding beneficial.
• Buying Tips: Look for vibrant, open polyps and healthy mats.
• Pros: Easy to care for, colorful. There are a few different colors. There is a bright forest green color that is beautiful. All of the other colors are shades of brown.
• Cons: Can produce toxins; handle with care. This toxin is no joke. PLEASE read my blog on Palythoa toxins before purchasing. Can spread quickly and overshadow your other corals. I like to add these to a rock separate from my other rocks as well.

6. Ricordea

• Identification: A type of mushroom coral with a unique appearance, featuring small, bulbous tentacles.
• Water Quality: Moderate to high. Prefer stable parameters.
• Lighting: Moderate to high. They can adapt to various lighting conditions.
• Flow: Moderate. They enjoy gentle to moderate water flow.
• Feeding: Photosynthetic, but benefit from occasional feeding.
• Buying Tips: Choose vibrant, open specimens with healthy tissue.
• Pros: Colorful and unique. Simply stunning. Love love love!
• Cons: Can be sensitive to changes in water conditions.

7. Gorgonians

• Identification: Known for their branching, tree-like structures.
• Water Quality: High.
• Lighting: Moderate.
• Flow: High. Require strong water movement.
• Feeding: Some are photosynthetic, others require regular feeding. The ones that aren't photosynthetic, are difficult to take care of. They usually require larger, more established tanks to get enough nutrients and be able to handle the water quality associated with it.
• Buying Tips: Choose specimens with extended polyps and no signs of decay.
• Pros: Unique appearance.
• Cons: Some species are challenging to care for. Research exactly what species you would like to buy. Please read my blog on Gorgonians before purchasing. 

8. Clove Polyps

• Identification: Clove Polyps have small, flower-like polyps that extend from a mat-like base. They come in various colors and patterns.
• Water Quality: Stable, clean water is essential.
• Lighting: Moderate to high lighting.
• Flow: Moderate water flow.
• Feeding: Mostly photosynthetic, but can benefit from occasional feedings of fine particulate foods.
• Pros: Attractive and relatively easy to care for. The color varieties are really beautiful and they move beautifully in the flow.
• Cons: Can spread rapidly and overgrow other corals. I have never had this problem , as my issue is usually getting them to spread at all. I do know a few people that had that issue though. I guess they had the magic touch :)

General Care Tips for Soft Corals

1. Water Quality

   • Parameters: Maintain stable water parameters with ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates kept low. Phosphates should also be minimal to prevent algae growth.
   • Testing: Regularly test your water for pH, alkalinity, calcium, magnesium, and other important elements to ensure a stable environment.

2. Lighting

   • Intensity: While soft corals can adapt to various lighting conditions, it's crucial to provide adequate light for photosynthesis. LED lights are a popular choice due to their efficiency and spectrum options.
   • Duration: Aim for 8-10 hours of light per day to mimic natural daylight cycles.

3. Water Flow

   • Placement: Position your corals in areas of the tank where they receive the appropriate flow. Too much flow can damage delicate polyps, while too little can lead to detritus buildup.
   • Circulation: Use powerheads and wavemakers to create a gentle, oscillating current in the tank.

4. Feeding

   • Diet: While most soft corals rely on photosynthesis, supplemental feeding can promote growth and vibrant colors. Use coral foods, phytoplankton, and finely chopped meaty foods.
   • Frequency: Feed sparingly, as overfeeding can lead to poor water quality. Once or twice a week is generally sufficient.

5. Placement

   • Compatibility: Ensure your soft corals are compatible with each other and other tank inhabitants. Some corals can release toxins or engage in chemical warfare, so research compatibility before placement.

Buying Tips

When purchasing corals, follow these guidelines to ensure you select healthy specimens:

1. Appearance: Look for corals with vibrant colors, open polyps, and no signs of damage or disease.
2. Polyp Extension: Healthy corals usually have extended polyps. Closed or retracted polyps may indicate stress or poor health.
3. Tissue Health: Avoid corals with torn or damaged tissue.
4. Pests: Check for signs of pests like flatworms, nudibranchs, or algae.
5. Aquarium Conditions: Choose corals that match your tank's conditions (lighting, flow, water quality).

Conclusion

Soft corals are an excellent choice for beginners due to their hardiness and lower maintenance requirements. By understanding their needs and providing the right environment, you can enjoy a vibrant and thriving coral reef in your home aquarium.

Remember to maintain stable water parameters, provide appropriate lighting and flow, and feed your corals to keep them healthy and colorful. With patience and care, your soft corals will flourish, creating a stunning underwater world for you to enjoy!

Happy Reefing!