The Ultimate Guide to Gorgonians:

Care, Types, and Best Practices

Gorgonians, also known as sea fans or sea whips, are stunning additions to any saltwater aquarium. These beautiful and diverse corals can bring a unique flair to your reef tank with their intricate structures and vibrant colors. This comprehensive guide will cover the different types of gorgonians, their care requirements, and best practices for maintaining a healthy and thriving environment for them. We'll also discuss aquacultured species, propagation methods, and the types of tanks they are best suited for.

Types of Gorgonians

Gorgonians can be broadly categorized into two types based on their skeletal structure: photosynthetic and non-photosynthetic.

Photosynthetic Gorgonians

Photosynthetic gorgonians rely on symbiotic zooxanthellae algae within their tissues to produce food through photosynthesis. These types are generally easier to care for and are more suitable for beginner to intermediate aquarists.

1. Purple Sea Blade (Pterogorgia citrina)

   • Identification: Characterized by its flat, blade-like branches and vibrant purple color.
   • Growth Rate: Moderate (2-4 inches per year)
   • Hobbyist Level: Beginner to intermediate
   • Fun Fact: This gorgonian can act as a natural filter, helping to clean the water by trapping particles.

2. Purple Sea Whip (Pterogorgia guadalupensis)

   • Identification: Thin, whip-like branches with a striking purple hue.
   • Growth Rate: Moderate (2-4 inches per year)
   • Hobbyist Level: Beginner to intermediate
   • Fun Fact: The branches can sway gracefully in the current, adding dynamic movement to the tank.

3. Corky Sea Finger (Briareum asbestinum)

   • Identification: Thick, finger-like branches with a corky texture and brownish color.
   • Growth Rate: Moderate to fast (4-6 inches per year)
   • Hobbyist Level: Beginner to intermediate
   • Fun Fact: This gorgonian is known for its resilience and can tolerate a range of conditions.

Non-Photosynthetic Gorgonians

Non-photosynthetic gorgonians do not rely on light for food and instead capture plankton and other small particles from the water. These types are generally more challenging to care for and are better suited for advanced aquarists.

1. Yellow Finger Gorgonian (Diodogorgia nodulifera)

   • Identification: Bright yellow, finger-like branches with polyp extensions.
   • Growth Rate: Slow (1-2 inches per year)
   • Hobbyist Level: Advanced
   • Fun Fact: This gorgonian requires regular feedings of microplankton to thrive.

2. Red Tree Gorgonian (Swiftia exserta)

   • Identification: Delicate, tree-like structure with bright red branches.
   • Growth Rate: Slow (1-2 inches per year)
   • Hobbyist Level: Advanced
   • Fun Fact: Often found in deep-water environments, this gorgonian adds a dramatic flair to the tank.

3. Orange Sea Fan (Gorgonia flabellum)

   • Identification: Large, fan-shaped structure with a bright orange color.
   • Growth Rate: Slow (1-2 inches per year)
   • Hobbyist Level: Advanced
   • Fun Fact: This species requires meticulous care and feeding but offers unmatched visual appeal.

General Care Requirements for Gorgonians

Water Quality Requirements

• Parameters: Maintain stable parameters with specific gravity between 1.023 and 1.025, temperature between 72-78°F, pH 8.1-8.4, and alkalinity 8-12 dKH.
• Nutrients: Regular dosing of calcium and magnesium to support skeletal growth.
• Filtration: High-quality filtration to keep the water pristine, especially for non-photosynthetic species.

Lighting (PAR)

• Photosynthetic Gorgonians: Require moderate to high light levels (150-300 PAR).
• Non-Photosynthetic Gorgonians: Thrive in low light conditions (<50 PAR).

Ideal Water Flow

• Photosynthetic Gorgonians: Prefer moderate to strong water flow to prevent detritus buildup.
• Non-Photosynthetic Gorgonians: Require strong water flow to ensure sufficient food particles reach them.

Aggression Levels

All gorgonians have low aggression levels, making them suitable for placement with other corals and marine life without the risk of harming their tank mates.

Feeding

• Photosynthetic Gorgonians: Benefit from occasional feedings of phytoplankton and marine snow.
• Non-Photosynthetic Gorgonians: Require regular feedings of microplankton, rotifers, and other fine particulate foods.

Propagation of Gorgonians

Propagation of gorgonians can be rewarding and helps to reduce the pressure on wild populations. Here's a general guide to propagating gorgonians:

1. Select a Healthy Parent Colony: Choose a healthy, disease-free gorgonian with open polyps.
2. Prepare the Cutting: Use a sharp, sterilized pair of scissors or coral cutters to take a cutting from the parent colony. Ensure the cutting is at least a few inches long.
3. Attach the Cutting: Use coral glue or an epoxy putty to attach the cutting to a small piece of live rock or a coral frag plug.
4. Place in the Tank: Position the new frag in an area with appropriate water flow and lighting conditions for its type.
5. Monitor and Care: Keep a close eye on the frag, ensuring it receives adequate flow and feeding if necessary.

Aquacultured Species

Many gorgonians are available as aquacultured specimens, which are generally hardier and better adapted to aquarium life. Some commonly aquacultured gorgonians include:

• Purple Sea Blade (Pterogorgia citrina)
• Corky Sea Finger (Briareum asbestinum)
• Purple Sea Whip (Pterogorgia guadalupensis)

Opting for aquacultured gorgonians supports sustainable practices and helps protect wild populations.

Buying Tips and Considerations

1. Source: Purchase from reputable suppliers who specialize in aquacultured species.
2. Health Check: Look for gorgonians with open polyps and vibrant color. Avoid specimens with algae overgrowth or tissue recession.
3. Compatibility: Consider the tank's existing inhabitants and avoid placing gorgonians near aggressive corals that may damage their delicate structures.

Fun Facts and Interesting Tidbits

• Adaptability: Photosynthetic gorgonians can help filter the water by trapping particles, contributing to overall tank health.
• Beauty in Motion: The branches of gorgonians sway gracefully in the current, adding dynamic movement and aesthetic appeal to the aquarium.
• Ecosystem Role: In the wild, gorgonians provide habitat and protection for various marine organisms, playing a crucial role in reef ecosystems.

Conclusion

Gorgonians are a fascinating and diverse group of corals that can add a unique and stunning visual element to your reef tank. By understanding their specific care requirements and selecting the right species for your aquarium, you can enjoy the beauty and complexity of these remarkable corals. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced aquarist, gorgonians offer a rewarding and enriching experience in marine reef keeping.

Happy Reefing!