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Datasheet
| Care Description | Gorgonians are often associated with the vision of graceful sea fans on the floor of the Caribbean. While many are fan-like in appearance, Gorgonians are a highly diverse Order that range from encrusting species resembling Xenia to rope-like species that grow in a single long strand. Care must be taken when shopping for Gorgonians because many of the spectacularly colored specimens are non-photosynthetic and require specialized husbandry. Please see below for additional care tips for sea fans. |
| Water Flow | Strong |
| Temperature | 22.2°C / 71.96°F - 25.6°C / 78.08°F |
| Specific Gravity | 1.023-1.026 |
| Carbonate Hardness | 8-12 |
| pH | 8.1-8.4 |
General Description:
Gorgonians, a diverse Order of corals, include species ranging from fan-like to encrusting or rope-like forms. They are commonly found adorning the floors of Caribbean reefs, adding grace and beauty to underwater landscapes.
Demands and Hardiness:
When considering Gorgonians for a tank, it is essential to note that some strikingly colored specimens are non-photosynthetic and have specialized care requirements. For optimal growth and health, attention must be paid to their feeding habits and environmental needs.
Lighting:
Gorgonians, especially those from the Caribbean like the Amber Sea Fan, benefit from intense lighting for vibrant coloration and overall well-being. Photosynthetic species thrive under Metal Halide, T5, or LED lighting, while non-photosynthetic varieties demand meticulous filter feeding due to their origin in the Pacific.
Water Flow:
It is advisable to provide strong water movement for Gorgonians, mimicking natural reef conditions with wave boxes or controlled powerheads. The use of equipment like Tunze Waveboxes can help create the back-and-forth surge that these corals thrive in.
Feeding:
Gorgonians heavily rely on their zooxanthellae for sustenance but also feed on phytoplankton and small microfauna in the water column. Liquid and powdery foods rich in Phytoplankton and Zooplankton particles are suitable for these filter-feeding corals.
Propagation:
The Pseudoplexaura genus, including the Amber Sea Fan, has shown success in captive propagation, making them ideal candidates for aquaculture. While cutting Gorgonians is feasible, securing them to rocks can be challenging due to their tendency to shed their outer layers.
Localization & Habitat:
Sea fans, such as those from the Caribbean, are commonly found in coral reefs worldwide. The Amber Sea Fan, specifically, boasts a gold stalk with purple hues and matching polyps, thriving in the shallow waters of its natural habitat.