Common name: sheet coral

General information

Lamarck's Sheet Coral, scientifically known as Agaricia lamarcki, is a species of hard coral that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This coral is characterized by its thin, leaf-like layers which resemble the leaves of a head of lettuce, giving rise to its other common names, Lettuce Coral and Cabbage Coral. Its coloration can vary from shades of brown to green, often with lighter edges, which adds to its visual appeal in a reef tank setting.

Care

Lamarck's Sheet Coral requires moderate to high lighting conditions to thrive, as it relies on its symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae algae for nutrition through photosynthesis. It also benefits from moderate water flow, which helps to remove waste products and deliver nutrients. While it can obtain most of its nutritional needs from the light, supplemental feeding with fine particulate foods can promote growth and health.

Symbiosis

Like many corals, Agaricia lamarcki has a symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae, microscopic algae that live within its tissues. This relationship is mutualistic, where the coral provides the algae with a protected environment and compounds necessary for photosynthesis, while the algae produce oxygen and help the coral to remove wastes. Additionally, the algae contribute to the coral's energy needs by sharing the sugars they produce.

Habitat

Lamarck's Sheet Coral is typically found in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea and the western Atlantic Ocean. It prefers reef slopes and back reef environments where it can receive ample light, usually at depths ranging from 1 to 20 meters. This coral is often seen growing on vertical surfaces or overhangs, which allows it to capture light effectively in its natural habitat.