Description
Leptastrea is a genus of stony corals, often described as "encrusting" or "plocoid," meaning they grow in a flat, dome-like shape by covering the substrate. They are relatively beginner-friendly corals, known for their diverse color variations and a tendency towards slower growth compared to some other encrusting corals. Leptastrea colonies typically have small, barrel-shaped corallites with distinct grooves and tubercles.
Key features of Leptastrea corals:
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Growth Form: Encrusting or plocoid, forming flat or dome-shaped colonies.
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Corallites: Small, barrel-shaped corallites with grooves and tubercles separating them.
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Color: Available in a wide range of colors, including cream, green, yellow, and variations of these.
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Growth Rate: Generally slow-growing, making them suitable for smaller tanks or aquascapes where rapid growth is undesirable.
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Lighting: Can tolerate a range of lighting conditions, from lower to moderate.
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Current: Often found in areas with moderate to high water movement.
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Care: Considered beginner-friendly, but proper feeding (small food particles) and adequate water parameters are important.
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Stinging: Leptastrea have a stinging power, so spacing them appropriately from other corals is recommended.
