Soft corals are found in the world’s oceans but are most commonly discovered in the deep sea, tropics, and subtropics, as well as polar waters. The most common names used for subsets of soft corals are “sea fans” and “sea whips.”
Bursting with vibrant colors and swaying gently in the ocean currents, soft corals are the unsung heroes of the marine world. They are soft and bendable and play a crucial role in our ecosystem. Resembling plants or trees in their form, these organisms differ from their hard coral relatives as they do not contribute to reef-building. Yet, they share a common trait of thriving in similar colonies.
What are Soft Corals?
Soft coral is a term used to describe a variety of coral species that have one thing in common – they lack a hard skeleton. They are the opposite of hard corals, which have a skeleton made of calcium carbonate.
But this doesn’t mean that all soft corals are entirely devoid of hard structures. Some have tiny, hard pieces of the skeleton within their larger, fleshy bodies.
Most depend on a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae, an algae type that lives inside coral. Others, like Mushroom Corals, depend on the nutrients they can extract from the water and from eating other organisms.
Living Conditions of Soft Corals
Soft corals typically thrive in nutrient-rich waters with low light. They’re often collected for aquariums due to their resilience during transport and resistance to damage compared to hard corals. However, managing their growth within an aquarium can be challenging. Understanding each coral’s unique features is key to providing optimal care.
Soft Coral Types
There are many different kinds of soft coral in the world’s oceans that are available for aquarium hobbyists. They include:
- Ricordea
- Zoanthids
- Palythoa
- Discosoma
- Pachyclavularia
- Alcyonium
- Cladiella
- Lobophytum
- Sarcophyton
- Sinularia
- Nepthea
Soft Coral Color
Soft corals showcase a stunning array of colors. However, the color palette may vary depending on the species. For instance, Green Star Polyps exhibit shades of green, while Toadstool Leather Coral is usually brown, yellow, or tan. Other varieties, like Zoanthids, offer a broader spectrum of colors and patterns, even appearing neon under dark lighting.
Popular Soft Coral for Aquariums
Soft coral is one of the most popular additions to aquariums. Some of the most popular varieties include:
Zoanthids
Easy to grow with moderate water flow, they come in various colors and patterns, some of which are incredibly expensive. They are considered easy to moderate-level coral to take care of.
Mushroom Corals
A great choice for a beginner, these corals are a very popular type for aquarium hobbyists. They are easy to frag and come in a variety of colors, including green and orange.
Toadstool Leather Coral
A large species that can grow up to 2 feet but is easy to manage. hey usually come in green, brown, or yellow, with tentacles of different lengths. These corals do best in a tank with moderate to high water flow.
Green Star Polyps
Fast-growing and beautifully green, they’re native to the Indo-Pacific. These corals prove troublesome or exciting depending on the hobbyist. They do best on a rock island that can help prevent them from overgrowing and taking over the tank.
Pulsing Xenia
Known for their pulsating polyps, they add movement to your tank. The Pulsing Xenia is easy coral to keep that candy situated in the bottom, metal, or top of the tank. They are originally found throughout the Indo-Pacific, including around Fiji, Australia, and the Solomon Islands. They are the second most popular soft coral type to keep in an aquarium. They are usually pink to purple in color.
Whether you’re a seasoned aquarist or a beginner, understanding and catering to the needs of these captivating creatures can ensure a vibrant and healthy underwater ecosystem in your aquarium.
Ocean Insights: Hear From Our Experts
By Hamna Faizan
Marine Life Researcher and Lecturer, with an MSc in Zoology
FAQs
What is considered a soft coral?
Soft corals come in many different shapes and sizes. Sea fingers and sea whips are some of the most common. A coral that lacks a hard skeleton is usually considered a variety of soft coral.
Are soft corals good for beginners?
Yes, corals are usually considered good for beginner aquarium hobbyists. But not all soft corals are the same. They may take their nutrients in different ways and, if not contained, grow out of control and take over your aquarium.
What is the difference between hard coral and soft coral?
The main difference between hard coral and soft coral is that hard corals have a calcium carbonate skeleton, and soft corals are more fleshy in, like those large hard interior structures.
What is soft coral used for?
Many varieties of soft coral are harvested and used as decoration in aquariums. Wild soft corals attract tourism in the form of diving and snorkeling trips.
How much light do soft corals need?
Most soft corals prefer moderate light in aquariums. They usually do best at the bottom of the tank, especially if you have powerful lights. But, if you have dimmer lighting around your aquarium, you can place them in the middle or at the top.
