Things You'll Need
- Temperature and pH monitoring equipment
- Mineral supplements
- Light source
- Water circulator
Instructions
Investigate the type of soft coral most appropriate for your aquarium. If soft coral is already present in your tank, finding reference information on the type of coral will help ensure its health.
Supplement your reef system. For example, sea fan soft corals require calcium, iodine, and strontium supplementation for proper growth. Make certain the supplements for one group of soft corals do not interfere with the health of other groups within your aquarium. Not all corals require the same minerals.
Maintain optimal tank conditions. Frequently check and maintain the appropriate temperature and pH levels in your coral system. Sea plume soft coral, for example, requires a temperature range of 72 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit and a pH of 8.1 to 8.4.
Light the tank appropriately. Many soft corals rely on photosynthesis for part of their food production, and improper lighting hampers that function. Adjust the lighting based on the groupings of coral present, as some species require bright constant light while others flourish in shady conditions.
Create suitable water flow conditions. Corals are essentially non-mobile, so create an environment that actively provides nutrients and supplements. For example, mushroom or leather soft coral requires medium water flow while devil's hand coral needs a strong water flow.
Establish equilibrium in your aquarium. Work to build a constant, unchanging environment. Introduce new species carefully and over time.