More info
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, encompassing a highly diverse Order, present a wide array of forms from fan-like structures to rope-like strands, with a variety of species ranging from encrusting types to thin blade-like branches found in the Caribbean like Pterogorgia anceps, commonly known as the Purple Blade Sea Fan.
Demands and Hardiness
When considering Gorgonian care, it is crucial to note that while some species are photosynthetic, some are non-photosynthetic and necessitate specialized husbandry practices, with non-photosynthetic varieties demanding constant filter feeding for survival, posing a challenge even for experienced hobbyists. Careful consideration is advised when selecting Gorgonians for a reef aquarium setup.
Lighting
For optimal coloration and health, Gorgonians, particularly those native to the Caribbean, benefit from intense lighting due to their photosynthetic nature and shallow-water habitat. Recommended lighting options include Metal Halide, T5's, or LED lighting systems. Non-photosynthetic Gorgonians, mainly from the Pacific, require even more attention and dedicated feeding routines to thrive.
Water Flow
Gorgonians thrive in environments with strong water movement. To replicate natural conditions and enhance their display, utilizing wave boxes or controlled powerheads that simulate a back and forth surge is recommended. Implements like Tunze Waveboxes can create ideal flow patterns, mimicking the Caribbean reef habitats these sea fans originate from.
Feeding
Gorgonians heavily rely on products from their zooxanthellae and may also feed on phytoplankton and similar-sized microfauna present in the water column. Various dry phytoplankton-based foods tailored for filter-feeding reef inhabitants are available on the market, suitable for supplementing the nutritional needs of Gorgonians.
Propagation
Pterogorgia anceps and other Gorgonians within this genus have been successfully propagated in captivity, presenting a promising opportunity for aquaculture practices. While propagation via cutting is relatively straightforward, attaching them securely to rocks can pose a challenge, as Gorgonians tend to shed their skin, requiring meticulous care during the process.
Localization & Habitat
Sea fans, including the Purple Blade Sea Fan, can be found across various coral reefs, with the Caribbean serving as a notable habitat for many Gorgonian species. Their natural habitats emphasize the importance of providing suitable conditions in an aquarium setting to ensure their well-being and longevity.