Common Names

Sea Blades, Sea Fans, Sea Rods, Sea Whips

Description

Gorgonians are generally tree shaped but come in a variety of interesting shapes. They anchor themselves to the substrate with the branches extending outward. Not recommended for beginners Gorgonians can thrive and be a very rewarding addition to the aquarium with proper care. It is recommended that Gorgonians be added to a mature tank.

Care Level: Moderate to Difficult

Placement: Bottom to Middle

Lighting: Moderate to High

Flow: Moderate

Conditions: 70°-84°, s.g. 1.023-1.025, Phosphates 0, Cal 400-450, dKH 8-11, Mag 1200-1350, Sr 8-10

Conditions & Placement

Gorgonians most be anchored and require moderate to strong water flow. Either surging or turbulent water movement is best. Gorgonians create a waxy film to help prevent algae growth which must be removed through sufficient water flow.

Feeding

While many are photosynthetic and rely on zooxanthellae for nutrients others are not but most must be fed to survive. For those needing to be fed feedings should be done at least once a week with some requiring more regular feedings of up to several times a day. Food such as detritus, brine shrimp, daphnia, rotifers, cyclopeeze or crushed up flake/pellet food. Marine snow is another good choice for feeding Gorgonians. Sometimes it can help to put a container of the Gorgonian to keep food close while it has time to eat.

Maintenance

Stable tank conditions are needed to keep Gorgonians. Bi-weekly water changes of at least 10% are suggested. Dosing trace elements and iodine may also beneficial.

Warnings

Gorgonians are very peaceful and will get along with one another but can become overgrown by other Gorgonians or harmed by other corals in close proximity. Angelfish will often pick on the polyps of Gorgonians so these fish should be well fed if attempting to house together.

Signs of Problems

• - Excessive algae growth on the Gorgonian

• - Reduced polyp extension

• - Tissue recession