Gorgonia sp.
| Care Level | Moderate to advanced |
| Lighting | Varies by type |
| Water Flow | Moderate to high |
| Placement | Mid rock, facing flow |
| Aggression | Peaceful |
| Coloration | Purple, red, yellow, tan |
Overview
Sea Fans (gorgonians) are branching corals that grow in a flat, fan-like shape to filter the current. Some are photosynthetic and hardy; many colorful ones are non-photosynthetic and require heavy feeding. Know which type you have before buying.
Care & Placement
Orient the fan across the flow so both faces receive current. Photosynthetic gorgonians (often tan/brown) need good light and are much easier; brightly colored NPS gorgonians (red, yellow) need strong flow and frequent feeding and are advanced.
Feeding
Photosynthetic types feed via light plus some particulate food. NPS types must be target-fed frequently (phytoplankton, fine zooplankton) multiple times daily — this is the main challenge in keeping the colorful ones.
Propagation
Frag by cutting a branch and gluing or pinning the base to a plug; keep the cut base clean to prevent infection.
Cautions
Keep the fan free of algae and detritus — brush it gently if needed. NPS gorgonians frequently starve in typical tanks; only attempt them with a heavy feeding regimen.