Leptastrea pruinosa ORANGE (08.10.2024) 4cm

  • pcs.
  • €39.26

Leptastrea, also known as "Starlet Coral," is a type of hard coral that belongs to the family Merulinidae. It is a popular choice among marine aquarium enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and relatively easy care requirements. Here is a description of Leptastrea and information on its cultivation in an aquarium:

Description of Leptastrea Coral:

  1. Appearance:

    • Leptastrea coral forms colonies composed of small, encrusting polyps with star-like patterns on its surface.

    • The polyps of Leptastrea are typically small and have a circular to irregular shape.

    • This coral species comes in various colors, including shades of brown, green, blue, purple, and pink.

  2. Size:

    • Individual polyps of Leptastrea are usually small, ranging from a few millimeters to a centimeter in diameter.

Cultivation of Leptastrea Coral in an Aquarium:

  1. Lighting:

    • Provide moderate to bright lighting in the aquarium. LED lights or T5 lamps with moderate intensity are suitable for Leptastrea.

  2. Water Flow:

    • Leptastrea prefers moderate water flow. Ensure there is gentle water movement around the coral, avoiding strong currents that could damage the delicate polyps.

  3. Salinity Level:

    • Maintain a stable salinity level in the aquarium, typically around 1.025.

  4. Feeding:

    • Leptastrea is a photosynthetic coral, primarily obtaining nutrients through photosynthesis. However, it can also capture small planktonic organisms from the water. While supplemental feeding is not usually required, you can offer small-sized zooplankton occasionally.

  5. Cleaning and Maintenance:

    • Regularly remove detritus and leftover food to maintain water quality in the aquarium.

    • Monitor the health of Leptastrea and watch for any changes, such as polyp retraction or signs of stress.

Cultivating Leptastrea coral in an aquarium is considered relatively straightforward, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists. It adds diversity and beauty to a marine aquarium when provided with the appropriate conditions and care.



Benefits of Buying Corals from Aquarium Cultivation:

Aquarium coral cultivation has become increasingly popular in the world of aquarium enthusiasts for several important reasons. Here are some advantages of purchasing corals from aquarium cultivation:

  1. Protection of Natural Coral Reefs:

    • One of the primary benefits is that corals cultivated in aquariums are not harvested from wild coral reefs. This means that you are not contributing to the destruction of natural marine ecosystems.

  2. Sustainable Aquaculture:

    • By buying corals from cultivation, you support sustainable aquaculture, which is more environmentally friendly than harvesting corals from wild reefs. This contributes to the preservation of marine biodiversity.

  3. Greater Availability and Variety:

    • Aquarium cultivators often offer a wider range of coral species and varieties, allowing aquarium enthusiasts to create more diverse and interesting ecosystems in their tanks.

  4. Healthier and Less Prone to Disease:

    • Corals from cultivation are typically healthier and less susceptible to diseases compared to those harvested from wild reefs. Aquarium cultivators often conduct regular testing and care for their corals, preventing diseases.

  5. Proper Cultivation Conditions:

    • Coral cultivators control and maintain stable water conditions, ensuring optimal lighting, water flow, and nutrient levels. This promotes healthy growth and vibrant colors in corals.

  6. Support for Enthusiasts:

    • Aquarium cultivators often offer support and advice, which can be particularly helpful for novice aquarists. You can gain valuable insights into coral care and cultivation from experienced cultivators.

  7. Safe and Legal Alternative:

    • When you purchase corals from aquarium cultivation, you avoid potentially illegal trade in wild corals, which can lead to the degradation of natural coral reefs.

  8. Supporting Scientific Innovation:

    • Aquarium cultivators often engage in research related to coral conservation and reef restoration. By buying from them, you also support these innovative scientific efforts.

Buying corals from aquarium cultivation is a sustainable and ethical way to own beautiful corals in your aquarium. It is also a means of engaging in the protection of marine nature and preserving wild coral reefs for future generations.