𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐥𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐆𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬:

𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞, 𝐈𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬

Introduction

If elegance had a mascot in the reefing world, gorgonians would be it. Their flowing branches and unique forms make them one of the most captivating additions to any reef tank. But there’s more to these beauties than meets the eye. Gorgonians come with their own set of challenges and rewards, making them a fascinating choice for both beginners and advanced hobbyists.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into gorgonian care, identification, and maintenance. Whether you’re curious about their lighting needs, want to know which species fit your skill level, or are just trying to figure out why yours looks like a skeleton, you’re in the right place.

Gorgonians 101: The Basics

What Are Gorgonians?

• Taxonomy: Gorgonians belong to the order Alcyonacea, placing them in the soft coral family. However, their unique branching structures set them apart.

• Structure: Gorgonians feature a central skeleton made of gorgonin (a protein) or calcium carbonate. This skeleton is covered by tissue and polyps, giving them their distinctive textured appearance.

• Photosynthetic vs. Non-Photosynthetic: Some gorgonians rely on light for energy, while others depend entirely on planktonic food.

Natural Habitat

• Where They’re Found: Gorgonians thrive in tropical and subtropical oceans, often in high-flow areas like reefs or rocky ledges.

• Environmental Conditions: Their habitats range from sunlit shallows to dim, nutrient-rich depths, influencing their care needs in captivity.

  Tamara’s Pro Tip: "Think of gorgonians as nature’s streamers—constantly swaying in the current and always in need of a breeze to stay happy."

Choosing the Right Gorgonian

Photosynthetic Gorgonians

Purple Frilly Gorgonian (Pseudopterogorgia bipinnata)

• • Identification: Deep purple branches with feathery, flowy polyps that sway in the current.

  • Growth Rate: Moderate (2-4 inches per year).

  • Hobbyist Level: Beginner to intermediate.

  • Fun Fact: These gorgonians are one of the easiest to keep, thriving in moderate flow and lighting.

Corky Sea Fingers (Briareum asbestinum)

• • Identification: Compact, finger-like branches with a corky, rough texture and subtle purple or tan hues.

  • Growth Rate: Steady and moderate.

  • Hobbyist Level: Beginner-friendly.

  • Fun Fact: Known for their resilience, they can adapt to various flow and light conditions with ease.

Yellow Sea Whip (Leptogorgia virgulata)

• • Identification: Bright yellow, whip-like branches that sway gracefully in current.

  • Growth Rate: Moderate (2-4 inches per year).

  • Hobbyist Level: Beginner to intermediate.

  • Fun Fact: A hardy species often found in the Caribbean, making it a colorful addition to any tank.

Golden Sea Fan (Acabaria delilei)

• • Identification: Intricate fan-like structure with a golden hue and small polyps.

  • Growth Rate: Moderate (1-3 inches per year).

  • Hobbyist Level: Intermediate.

  • Fun Fact: Their delicate fan shape makes them a centerpiece in aquascaping.

Orange Tree Gorgonian (Eunicea calyculata)

• • Identification: Bushy branches with a bright orange tone and small polyps.

  • Growth Rate: Steady (2-4 inches per year).

  • Hobbyist Level: Intermediate.

  • Fun Fact: This gorgonian is resilient and can thrive in varying tank conditions.

Non-Photosynthetic Gorgonians

Red Sea Whip (Ellisella spp.)

• • Identification: Slender, vibrant red branches with smooth tissue and tiny polyps.

  • Growth Rate: Slow (1-2 inches per year).

  • Hobbyist Level: Advanced.

  • Fun Fact: Their vivid red coloration makes them a standout in any reef, but they demand a constant supply of planktonic food.

Blueberry Gorgonian (Acalycigorgia spp.)

• • Identification: Thin branches dotted with small, colorful polyps resembling blueberries.

  • Growth Rate: Extremely slow (<1 inch per year).

  • Hobbyist Level: Expert-only.

  • Fun Fact: Despite their beauty, they’re notorious for being one of the most challenging species due to their high feeding demands.

Orange Knobby Gorgonian (Swiftia exserta)

• • Identification: Bright orange branches with knobby textures and tiny polyps.

  • Growth Rate: Slow (1-2 inches per year).

  • Hobbyist Level: Advanced.

  • Fun Fact: This species’ unique texture adds visual interest but requires diligent feeding.

Red Finger Gorgonian (Diodogorgia nodulifera)

• • Identification: Vibrant red branches with pronounced polyps in contrasting colors.

  • Growth Rate: Very slow (<1 inch per year).

  • Hobbyist Level: Expert-only.

  • Fun Fact: Its striking appearance makes it a dream for experienced reefers who can meet its care demands.

Silver Sea Fan (Rumphella sp.)

• • Identification: Silver-gray fan-like structure with tiny, delicate polyps.

  • Growth Rate: Slow (1-2 inches per year).

  • Hobbyist Level: Advanced.

  • Fun Fact: This gorgonian thrives in high-flow, nutrient-rich setups and adds an elegant touch to any reef.

What to Look for When Buying

Signs of Health

• Open Polyps: Healthy gorgonians typically display fully extended polyps, which resemble tiny feathers or flowers. This indicates they are actively feeding and in good condition.

• Vibrant Color: Bright, consistent coloration across the entire coral is a strong indicator of health. Look for the natural hues specific to the species you’re purchasing, whether it’s deep purple, golden yellow, or red.

• Intact Tissue: The tissue should be firmly attached to the skeleton, with no signs of peeling or gaps. A healthy gorgonian will appear robust, with no frayed or damaged branches.

Red Flags

• Closed Polyps: Persistently closed polyps can indicate stress, poor water quality, or disease. If the gorgonian has been in the seller’s tank for an extended period and the polyps remain closed, it may not be thriving.

• Discolored or Peeling Tissue: Brown, black, or whitish patches, especially if the tissue is peeling away from the skeleton, are clear signs of decay or damage. These are often caused by poor handling, bacterial infections, or nutrient imbalances.

• Algae Growth: The presence of algae, particularly hair algae, on the branches or base is a sign of neglect. Algae can choke the coral and compete for light and nutrients, making recovery difficult.

• Damaged or Broken Branches: While minor damage can sometimes heal, gorgonians with multiple broken branches or exposed skeletons are less likely to recover.

Additional Considerations

• Source: Whenever possible, purchase aquacultured gorgonians over wild-caught specimens. Aquacultured corals are often hardier, better acclimated to tank life, and collected sustainably.

• Tank Conditions at the Store: Observe the tank conditions where the gorgonian is kept. Clean water, appropriate flow, and healthy tank mates are all good indicators of a coral that has been well cared for.

• Seller Knowledge: Ask the seller about the coral’s specific care requirements, including lighting, flow, and feeding. Knowledgeable sellers often have healthier stock and can provide valuable advice for acclimating the coral to your tank.

Gorgonian Care Requirements

A. Lighting

Photosynthetic Species:

• Require moderate to high lighting to thrive. Full-spectrum LED systems with a mix of blue and white light are ideal, mimicking natural sunlight and encouraging growth and vibrant coloration.

• Avoid sudden changes in lighting intensity, as this can stress the coral. Gradually acclimate new gorgonians to your tank’s lighting over 1-2 weeks using mesh screens or adjustable light settings.

Non-Photosynthetic Species:

• Prefer shaded or dimly lit areas of the tank. Direct, intense light can cause tissue damage or stress.

• Consider creating zones with lower lighting by using rock overhangs or carefully positioned coral placements.

Lighting Supplements to Consider:

• UV-Enhancing LEDs: Blue-light-heavy systems with UV spectrums encourage vibrant coloration and photosynthetic activity.

B. Water Flow

Why Flow Matters:

• Strong, consistent flow is essential for keeping polyps clean of debris, delivering food particles, and preventing detritus buildup on branches.

• Proper flow replicates the natural wave action that gorgonians experience in the wild, encouraging healthy polyp extension and growth.

Ideal Flow:

• Moderate to high flow is best, with alternating currents to ensure all sides of the gorgonian receive nutrients and oxygen.

• Utilize wavemakers or programmable pumps to create dynamic, randomized flow patterns.

Tamara’s Pro Tip: Gorgonians love flow like we love Netflix—a steady stream keeps them happy. Just don’t binge on the highest setting; balance is key!

C. Water Parameters

Temperature: Maintain stable temperatures between 75–80°F (24–27°C). Sudden fluctuations can lead to polyp retraction and stress.

Salinity: Keep within a range of 1.024–1.026 specific gravity for optimal health.

Nitrates/Phosphates:

• Photosynthetic species prefer low nutrient levels, but slightly elevated levels (within safe ranges) can benefit non-photosynthetic gorgonians by promoting food particle availability.

• Regular water testing and using phosphate removers or nitrate reactors help maintain balance.

Supplementation:

• Iodine and Strontium: These elements strengthen gorgonian skeletons and support polyp health and optimizing their light absorption processes.

• Amino Acids: Enhance tissue repair and overall growth, especially for non-photosynthetic species.

• Calcium and Magnesium: Essential for structural integrity in certain species with calcified skeletons.

D. Feeding

Photosynthetic Gorgonians:

• Primarily rely on their symbiotic zooxanthellae for energy through photosynthesis. However, they benefit from occasional supplemental feedings of planktonic foods such as phytoplankton or powdered coral food.

• Feed 1-2 times a week to enhance growth and coloration.

Non-Photosynthetic Gorgonians:

• Require regular feedings of small particle foods such as rotifers, copepods, oyster eggs, and reef snow. These species lack zooxanthellae and depend entirely on external food sources.

• Feed 3–5 times per week, ensuring food particles remain suspended in the water column with strong flow during feeding sessions.

Feeding Tips:

• Target feeding with a turkey baster or coral feeder ensures food reaches the gorgonian’s polyps effectively.

• Turn off pumps temporarily during feeding to reduce waste and allow the coral to capture food more efficiently.

Placement and Compatibility

Tank Placement

Optimal Positioning:

• For photosynthetic gorgonians, place them in well-lit areas of the tank where they can receive moderate to high light. Ensure the placement allows sufficient exposure to your lighting system's blue and white spectrums.
• Non-photosynthetic gorgonians thrive in shaded or dimly lit areas, such as under rock overhangs or in corners with indirect flow.

Flow Considerations:

• Position gorgonians in areas with moderate to high flow to keep their polyps free of debris and deliver nutrients effectively.
• Avoid stagnant zones or excessive direct flow that could damage their tissue or prevent proper polyp extension. Use wavemakers or adjustable pumps to create natural, alternating currents.

Protection from Traffic:

• Keep gorgonians away from high-traffic areas where active fish, large invertebrates, or clumsy tank mates might bump into or break their branches.
• Use secure frag mounts or epoxy to anchor them firmly in place to prevent accidental toppling.

Tankmates

Best Companions:

• Peaceful Fish: Small, non-aggressive species like gobies, wrasses, firefish, or cardinalfish are excellent tankmates. They rarely interact with or harm gorgonians.
• Reef-Safe Invertebrates: Clean-up crew members like snails, hermit crabs, and shrimp can coexist peacefully without disturbing the gorgonian.
• Corals with Compatible Chemistry: Soft corals, LPS, or SPS that don’t release excessive allelopathic chemicals are ideal neighbors. Ensure proper spacing to avoid direct contact.

Troublemakers:

• Nipping Fish: Species like dwarf angelfish (e.g., flame angelfish, coral beauty) or larger butterflyfish may nip at gorgonian tissue or polyps.
• Aggressive Corals: Avoid placing gorgonians near corals that release allelopathic chemicals (e.g., certain leather corals or anemones), as these can stress or damage the gorgonian over time.
• Large Crabs or Starfish: Certain crabs or starfish can inadvertently damage gorgonians while scavenging.

Tips for Success

• Create Zones: Design your tank layout to accommodate different needs—well-lit areas for photosynthetic gorgonians and shaded, low-light zones for non-photosynthetic types.
• Space Them Out: Allow at least a few inches between gorgonians and other corals to prevent competition or accidental stings.
• Observe Behavior: Monitor interactions between gorgonians and tankmates regularly. If you notice persistent nipping or damage, consider relocating either the gorgonian or the aggressor.

Cleaning and Handling Gorgonians

Routine Cleaning:

• Use a turkey baster to gently blow off detritus, algae, or uneaten food that may settle on the branches or base. This helps prevent decay and maintains polyp health.
• For persistent algae buildup, carefully use a soft-bristled toothbrush or siphon to clean around the base or branches without damaging the polyps.

Avoid Direct Handling:

• Always handle gorgonians by their base or skeleton. Avoid touching the polyps directly, as this can cause retraction and stress.
• Use gloves when necessary, especially when handling species with sharp or brittle structures.

Tamara’s Pro Tip: Think of your gorgonian as a delicate piece of fine art—admire it from a distance and clean it with the gentlest touch.

Monitoring Health

Signs of Stress:

• Closed Polyps: If polyps remain closed for extended periods, check water parameters and flow. Stressors like inadequate light or improper flow can cause retraction.
• Peeling Tissue: Tissue sloughing off the skeleton is a sign of poor health, often caused by fluctuating water parameters or lack of nutrition.
• Algae Growth: Algae overgrowth can suffocate polyps. Increase flow and reduce light intensity in affected areas to manage algae.

Regular Observation:

• Monitor gorgonians closely during feeding and throughout the day. Healthy polyps will extend eagerly and display vibrant color.
• Record any changes in behavior or appearance to address issues promptly.

Propagation and Growth

Fragging Gorgonians

Tools:

• Sharp, sterile scissors or bone cutters for clean cuts.
• Super glue gel for attaching frags to plugs or rock.
• Frag plugs or rubble rock as a stable base.

Steps:

1. Select a healthy branch with fully extended polyps and no signs of damage or decay.
2. Cut the branch cleanly at an angle to minimize tissue damage.
3. Apply a small amount of super glue gel to the base and attach it firmly to a plug or piece of rubble rock.
4. Place the frag in a low-flow area initially to allow the glue to set, then gradually move it to a location with optimal flow and lighting.

Tamara’s Pro Tip: Fragging gorgonians is like trimming a bonsai tree—be precise, patient, and keep your tools sharp!

Encouraging Growth

Optimal Conditions:

• Maintain stable water parameters (temperature, salinity, and nutrient levels) to promote healthy growth.
• Ensure consistent feeding, especially for non-photosynthetic species. Regular doses of phytoplankton, reef snow, or similar foods can accelerate polyp extension and vitality.

Growth Rate:

• Gorgonians grow slowly, typically a few centimeters per year depending on the species. Celebrate small victories as you see new branches form or existing ones extend.

Enhancing Growth:

• Position frags or colonies in areas with alternating flow to simulate natural reef conditions.
• Avoid placing gorgonians near aggressive corals that could sting or shade them.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Algae Overgrowth

Cause: Excess nutrients (nitrates/phosphates) and inadequate flow allow algae to settle on gorgonian branches, choking polyps and blocking light.

Solutions:

• Increase Flow: Adjust wavemakers to create alternating currents that prevent algae from settling.

• Reduce Nutrients: Implement more frequent water changes, optimize protein skimming, and consider adding phosphate removers or refugiums with macroalgae.

• Manual Removal: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or turkey baster to gently remove algae from affected areas. Take care not to damage the polyps.

Pests

Common Culprits:

• Nudibranchs: Specialized predators that consume gorgonian tissue, leaving behind skeletonized branches.

• Flatworms: Small, often translucent pests that irritate polyps and feed on tissue.

Solutions:

• Dips: Treat affected gorgonians with coral-safe dips to eliminate pests before returning them to the tank.

• Natural Predators: Introduce reef-safe wrasses (e.g., six-line wrasse) or other pest-eating fish to control infestations naturally.

• Observation: Regularly inspect gorgonians for signs of pests, especially on undersides and shaded areas.

Tissue Necrosis

Cause: Poor water quality, inadequate flow, or physical damage can lead to tissue death, starting at the base or tips and spreading.

Solutions:

• Address Root Causes: Test and stabilize water parameters, ensuring appropriate flow and nutrient levels.

• Iodine Dips: Perform iodine dips to disinfect and encourage tissue regeneration.

• Fragging: Remove necrotic branches to prevent the spread of tissue loss and salvage healthy portions of the coral.

Closed Polyps

Cause: Stress from insufficient flow, lighting changes, or water quality fluctuations.

Solutions:

• Restore Conditions: Verify water parameters and adjust flow or lighting as needed.

• Patience: Some gorgonians take time to adjust to new environments, so observe carefully before taking drastic actions.

Stunted Growth

• Cause: Inadequate feeding (especially for non-photosynthetic species) or competition for nutrients.

• Solutions:

  • Increase Feeding: Feed non-photosynthetic gorgonians 3-5 times a week with appropriately sized foods like rotifers or phytoplankton.

  • Enhance Flow: Ensure food particles are distributed evenly throughout the tank to reach the gorgonian.

  • Supplementation: Add trace elements like iodine and strontium to support growth.

   

Advanced Topics for Gorgonian Enthusiasts

Biotope Tanks

Purpose: Mimic the natural habitats of gorgonians for a visually stunning and biologically accurate display.

Key Elements:

• Use fine sand substrates, live rock structures, and aquascaping techniques to replicate shallow reefs or deep-water environments.

• Incorporate tankmates native to the gorgonian’s natural habitat, such as gobies or pygmy seahorses for Indo-Pacific setups.

Non-Photosynthetic Mastery

Challenges:

• These species require consistent, nutrient-dense feedings without overwhelming the tank’s filtration capacity.

Solutions:

• Develop feeding schedules with high-quality foods like oyster eggs, copepods, or reef snow, ensuring minimal waste.

• Invest in advanced filtration systems, such as oversized protein skimmers or nutrient reactors, to manage the bioload.

Flow Experimentation

Why It Matters: Gorgonians thrive in dynamic, natural water movement that mimics ocean currents, promoting polyp extension and nutrient uptake.

Techniques:

• Use gyres or programmable wave makers to create alternating currents and simulate tidal flows.

• Experiment with flow intensities and directions to find the optimal conditions for your specific gorgonian species.

• Ensure flow reaches all sides of the gorgonian to prevent debris accumulation and maximize feeding efficiency.

Tamara’s Pro Tip: Getting flow just right for your gorgonian is like perfecting a dance routine—it takes some trial and error, but the results are mesmerizing!

FAQs About Gorgonians

Q: Are gorgonians corals or something else?

A: Gorgonians are technically soft corals, belonging to the subclass Octocorallia. However, their unique branching structures and growth patterns make them distinct enough to feel like their own category. They’re often referred to as "sea fans" or "sea whips" due to their striking appearance.

Q: Are gorgonians hard to keep?

A: It depends on the species:

• • Photosynthetic Gorgonians: These are beginner-friendly and thrive under moderate lighting and flow. They primarily rely on light for energy but benefit from occasional supplemental feedings.

  • Non-Photosynthetic Gorgonians: These require advanced care, including frequent feedings of small particle foods and a robust filtration system to manage nutrient loads. They’re best suited for experienced aquarists.

Q: Do gorgonians grow fast?

A: Not really. Gorgonians are slow growers, typically adding only a few centimeters per year. However, with stable water parameters, consistent feeding, and proper care, their growth can be steady and rewarding.

Q: Do gorgonians sting other corals?

A: No, gorgonians do not have the aggressive stinging tentacles found in some other corals. However, they can release allelopathic chemicals, which may stress nearby corals if not given adequate space.

Q: Can gorgonians survive in low light?

A: Non-photosynthetic gorgonians are adapted to low-light conditions, as they derive all their energy from feeding. Photosynthetic species, on the other hand, require moderate to high light levels to support their symbiotic zooxanthellae.

Q: What fish or invertebrates are safe with gorgonians?

A: Peaceful fish like gobies, blennies, and wrasses, as well as reef-safe invertebrates such as snails, shrimp, and small crabs, make excellent tankmates. Avoid species that nip or graze on coral tissue, such as some angelfish and butterflyfish.

Q: How do I know if my gorgonian is healthy?

A: A healthy gorgonian will have fully extended polyps, vibrant coloration, and intact tissue. Watch for signs of stress like peeling tissue, closed polyps, or algae growth, and address any issues promptly.

Conclusion

Gorgonians are truly one of the most unique and captivating additions to a reef tank. Their elegant, tree-like structures and delicate polyps add a dynamic, natural beauty to any setup. Whether you’re a beginner starting with photosynthetic species or an advanced hobbyist tackling the challenges of non-photosynthetic varieties, there’s a gorgonian for everyone.

Their care may require a bit of extra effort, but the reward is a thriving, vibrant coral that stands out in your underwater ecosystem. By understanding their specific needs—from lighting and flow to feeding and placement—you can create an environment where your gorgonians flourish.

So, embrace the art of patience, enjoy the journey, and let these magnificent corals transform your tank into a piece of the ocean.

Happy Reefing!