Reeflings

Common name: Crust coral

Scientific name: Leptastrea bottae (Milne Edwards & Haime, 1849)
Staghorn Leptastrea coral, on transparent background (PNG). Generative AI.Staghorn Leptastrea coral, on transparent background (PNG). Generative AI.
Staghorn Leptastrea coral, on transparent background (PNG). Generative AI.
Staghorn Leptastrea coral, on transparent background (PNG). Generative AI.
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General information

Leptastrea bottae, commonly known as Prismatic Coral, is a species of encrusting coral that is appreciated in the reefkeeping hobby for its hardiness and unique appearance. It is characterized by its small polyps and a range of colors, often displaying hues of brown, green, or even vibrant reds and oranges. This coral is known for its ability to adapt to various lighting conditions, making it a versatile choice for different aquarium setups.

Details

Lighting
50 to 150 PAR
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.025
Temperature
22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 7.8 to 8.5
Care level
Moderate to easy Tolerates a range of conditions.
Flow
Moderate Prefers moderate flow for feeding.
Aggression
Peaceful

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Cnidarians
    Cnidaria
  3. Class
    Corals
    Anthozoa
  4. Order
    Stony Corals
    Scleractinia
  5. Family
    Brain Corals
    Faviidae
  6. Genus
    Leptastrea
    Leptastrea
  7. Species
    Crust coral
    Leptastrea bottae (Milne Edwards & Haime, 1849)
  8. Synonyms
    Cyphastrea bottae Milne Edwards & Haime, 1849
    Leptastrea hawaiiensis Vaughan, 1907
    Leptastrea immersa Klunzinger, 1879
    Leptastrea solida Matthai, 1914
    Orbicella bottae (Milne Edwards & Haime, 1849)
    Orbicella inaequalis (Klunzinger, 1879)

Care

Prismatic Coral is relatively easy to maintain, making it suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. It thrives in moderate lighting and water flow conditions. While it can tolerate a range of water parameters, stability is key to its health. Regular feeding with microplankton or coral foods designed for LPS corals can promote growth and coloration.

Symbiosis

Leptastrea bottae does not have any well-known symbiotic relationships like those seen in anemones or corals that host zooxanthellae. However, its encrusting nature allows it to provide a habitat for various small invertebrates and microfauna, contributing to the biodiversity of the reef aquarium.

Habitat

This coral is found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically in shallow reef environments. It often settles on reef slopes and in lagoons, where it can grow on various substrates.