Ice Blue Leptastrea

Ice Blue Leptastrea: A Shimmering Gem for Your Reef Tank

The Ice Blue Leptastrea is a stunning small polyp stony (SPS) coral that brings a cool, shimmering glow to any reef aquarium. With its tight polyp structure and icy coloration, this coral is ideal for hobbyists who want something eye-catching yet relatively forgiving compared to more demanding SPS species.

Appearance and Placement of Ice Blue Leptastrea

Ice Blue Leptastrea typically forms an encrusting or dome-shaped colony covered in small, uniform polyps. Under blue or actinic lighting, the blue tones intensify, often showing subtle teal or aqua highlights. This makes it a great contrast piece against warmer reds, oranges, and greens in your aquascape.

For placement, consider the following:

  • Rockwork over sand: Place it on stable rock to allow it to slowly encrust and expand.
  • Mid to lower areas: Start it in moderate light and gradually adjust if coloration fades or browns.
  • Room to grow: Give it space away from aggressive stinging corals; it is not the most aggressive defender.

If you are planning your layout, you might like our guide on aquascaping ideas for small reef tanks to find the perfect spot for this coral.

Lighting, Flow, and Water Parameters

One of the advantages of Ice Blue Leptastrea is that it adapts to a variety of conditions as long as extremes are avoided.

Lighting Needs

Moderate PAR levels (around 80–150) are usually ideal. Too much light can cause washed-out colors, while too little may reduce growth.

  • Start in the shaded or lower third of the tank.
  • Acclimate slowly to stronger LEDs or T5 lighting.
  • Watch for signs of stress such as receding tissue or excessive paling.

Water Flow and Stability

Ice Blue Leptastrea prefers moderate, indirect flow that keeps detritus off the tissue without blasting the polyps.

  • Flow: Random, alternating flow is best; avoid direct laminar jets.
  • Parameters: Aim for stable reef conditions: 1.025 salinity, 78–79°F, alkalinity 8–9.5 dKH, calcium 420–450 ppm, magnesium 1300–1400 ppm.
  • Nutrients: Slightly nutrient-rich systems (detectable nitrate and phosphate) often yield better color and growth than ultra-low nutrient tanks.

Feeding, Growth, and Compatibility

While Ice Blue Leptastrea can thrive on light and dissolved nutrients alone, it often responds well to occasional target feeding.

  • Offer small particle foods like reef roids, powdered plankton, or fine mysis.
  • Feed at night or when polyps are extended for best capture.
  • Do not overfeed; excess food can degrade water quality.

Compatibility is generally excellent with most peaceful reef fish and invertebrates. Watch for large, aggressive LPS corals and certain soft corals that may overgrow or sting nearby tissue.

Tip: Add Ice Blue Leptastrea as part of a mixed reef that includes hardy LPS and zoanthids for a colorful, balanced display.

To learn more about building a stable system for corals like Ice Blue Leptastrea, check out our article on beginner reef tank setup and our SPS coral care basics guide.

With proper placement, stable parameters, and mindful feeding, Ice Blue Leptastrea can become a long-term, glowing centerpiece in your reef aquarium.