Gorgonian

Names & Synonyms

• CommonGorgonian
• Commonウミウチワ

Overview

Gorgonians (order Gorgonacea, subclass Octocorallia) are fan- or tree-shaped soft corals inhabiting reef slopes of the Indo-Pacific, Caribbean, and Mediterranean. Their intricate branching networks create striking silhouettes in red, orange, purple, and yellow. Two ecological groups exist: photosynthetic species that harbor zooxanthellae and tolerate moderate lighting, and non-photosynthetic species that require frequent target feeding with phytoplankton and rotifers. Both groups demand robust, consistent water movement; inadequate flow promotes algal fouling and rapid decline. Water temperature (22–26°C) and excellent water quality are critical for long-term success. Non-photosynthetic gorgonians are considered advanced-level corals, while photosynthetic varieties are somewhat more forgiving. Their dramatic architectural silhouettes make gorgonians a coveted centerpiece in mature reef displays.

Care Points

• Lighting—光合成に依存しない種が多い
• Notes—強めの水流が必要
• Feeding—定期的な給餌が不可欠
• Notes—水質は清浄に保つ
• Notes—美しいが維持難易度は高め

Sources

• Wikipedia(detail)

Related care articles

Marine Tank2026-08-26

Mixed-Coral Tank Layout Planning | Co-existence Examples for SPS, LPS, and Soft Corals

When culturing different types of corals in a single tank, understanding each group's ecological niche—including their position in the food chain, light requirements, and water flow needs—and realizing competition avoidance through placement is key to success...

Marine Tank2026-08-23

Choosing Substrate for Coral Tanks: Comparing Bare Bottom, Powder Sand, and Live Sand with Maintenance

The choice of substrate for a saltwater coral tank is directly connected not just to appearance but also to water quality management and the ecology of marine life. Here we organize the characteristics of bare bottom, powder sand, and live sand, and the management approach suited to each.

Marine Tank2026-08-10

Saltwater Aquarium Quarantine (QT) Systems | Pathogen Management and Setup Methods for New Introductions

Explaining the importance of quarantine (isolation) processes when introducing new corals and organisms, along with practical setup methods. An implementation guide to realize preventative husbandry, from QT tank sizing and feeding to pathogen checking procedures and timing for introduction to the main tank.

Get this species

Buy livestock directly from breeders and specialist shops on BreederDirect (br-choku), our sister marketplace for corals and marine fish.

* Opens an external site (BreederDirect / br-choku, Japanese) in a new tab.