Leathers Waxing Over In Cycle

[Joey.S]

Hey everyone,

I’ve got about 7 leathers in my 90 gallon softie, and for the last 2 months or so, about 4 of those leathers seem to be in this endless cycle of waxing over, polyps closed, open for about a day or two, and then repeat again. There’s a lot of flow in the tank, and I thought too much lighting was the issue, so my 300W black box is at 5% white, 15% blue. And I did that light change a few weeks ago, still no improvements. The other toadstool, sinularia, and gorgonian have been open everyday during that whole time, that’s why I’m lost. Any ideas? Thanks so much in advance.

 

[Joey.S]

Hey everyone,

I’ve got about 7 leathers in my 90 gallon softie, and for the last 2 months or so, about 4 of those leathers seem to be in this endless cycle of waxing over, polyps closed, open for about a day or two, and then repeat again. There’s a lot of flow in the tank, and I thought too much lighting was the issue, so my 300W black box is at 5% white, 15% blue. And I did that light change a few weeks ago, still no improvements. The other toadstool, sinularia, and gorgonian have been open everyday during that whole time, that’s why I’m lost. Any ideas? Thanks so much in advance.

One thing I will say is back in October 2020 I switched from Reef Crystals to Red Sea Coral Pro. Which I know mixes at a lot higher alk. And if I’m correct that’s when the issues started because I’ve used Red Sea ever since. So I’m thinking of switching salts for lower alk.

 

[krash7172]

What is your alk level? Is it stable? Some leathers will do this more than others and it's natural. If it keeps coming back, I wouldn't worry much. The only thing that seems a little odd is that polyps are only open for "a day or two".

 

[Joey.S]

What is your alk level? Is it stable? Some leathers will do this more than others and it's natural. If it keeps coming back, I wouldn't worry much. The only thing that seems a little odd is that polyps are only open for "a day or two".

It’s not as stable as I’d want it to be. I ran out of the Red Sea salt so my water change schedule is off currently. But once I get it I’ll be back on track.

 

[Joey.S]

What is your alk level? Is it stable? Some leathers will do this more than others and it's natural. If it keeps coming back, I wouldn't worry much. The only thing that seems a little odd is that polyps are only open for "a day or two".

Sorry forgot to add, last test was 10.1 dkh.

 

[krash7172]

10 dkh is fine. I keep mine around 9.5 and my softies are happy.