Purple Sea Plume

Antillogorgia / Pseudopterogorgia sp.

Care Level	Easy to moderate
Lighting	Moderate
Water Flow	Moderate to high
Placement	Mid rock, facing flow
Aggression	Peaceful
Coloration	Purple/tan feathery branches

Overview

The Purple Sea Plume is a photosynthetic gorgonian — a branching, feathery sea fan that is far easier than the colorful non-photosynthetic gorgonians. It sways beautifully in the current and, because it derives energy from light, it is a hardy, beginner-friendly gorgonian.

Care & Placement

Orient it in moderate-to-high flow so both sides of the branches get current, under moderate light. Mount the base securely on rock. Good flow keeps it clean; a photosynthetic gorgonian like this is far more forgiving than the NPS colorful ones.

Feeding

Photosynthetic; it also captures some fine plankton. Occasional feeding of fine foods helps, but it does not require the heavy feeding that non-photosynthetic gorgonians demand.

Propagation

Frag by cutting a branch and gluing/pinning the base to a plug; keep the cut clean to prevent infection.

Cautions

Keep it free of algae and detritus — brush gently if needed. Periodically sheds a waxy film (like leathers) and looks “closed” for a day or two — normal. Much easier than colorful NPS sea fans.