Yellow Gorgonian
Yellow gorgonian, sometimes referred to as Sea Rod, Deep Sea Yellow, or Orange Finger, is one of the most common types of Gorgonian corals found throughout the Caribbean waters. A member of the Anthothelidae family, the yellow gorgonian is a soft coral.
Yellow Gorgonian Trapping Plankton
The yellow gorgonian has tentacles that can appear finger like and furry, in a variety of colors, depending on the species of yellow gorgonian. The body of the yellow gorgonian ranges from bright red and yellow to white, with red calyces and white polyps responsible for trapping plankton that line the ends of its branches. The polyps themselves are nocturnal, and will only bloom at night or when the Yellow Gorgonianaquarium lights are off.
Yellow Gorgonian Not Photosynthetic
Unlike other gorgonian species, the yellow gorgonian is not photosynthetic, instead using its polyps and tentacles to trap passing organisms for food. (Because of this fact, yellow gorgonians can be more difficult to maintain in an artificial environment, as they will need to be fed a diet of baby brine shrimp, marine snow, phytoplankton and other micro organisms at least three times a week.)
Yellow Gorgonian Prepare For Addition To Reef Tank
Of all the sea fans available to cultivate in reef tanks, most aquarists find the yellow gorgonian the most durable and strongest of them all. When preparing the aquarium for the yellow gorgonian, there are two ways to insert the coral into the tank. Some recommend that the drip acclimation method be used to make sure the yellow gorgonian adapts fully to the new environment. Another option is to insert the yellow gorgonian into a bag and float the two under water for 30 minutes. Afterwards, discard the excess water and place the yellow gorgonian directly into the bottom of the tank. Either way, make sure to cut down on the amount of time the yellow gorgonian is exposed to air, as this can damage the coral. Underwater glue can be placed on the bottom of the yellow gorgonian so that it attaches securely to a piece of previously existing live rock within the tank. Regarding placement, sufficient room should be left around the yellow gorgonian, remembering that the coral will expand in size when it begins to branch out from the rock, so that other Yellow Gorgonian Cultureaggressive corals and anemones will not be a danger to the yellow gorgonian.
Yellow Gorgonian Water Current Demands
The water flow should be moderately strong and constantly flowing so that the accumulated debris on the outside of the yellow gorgonian will be washed off frequently, so algae do not develop among the colony. Even though the yellow gorgonian isnt photosynthetic, it still needs access to some light to thrive- it should be placed near the top of the tank if the aquariums lighting system isnt ideal. Iodine, calcium, and strontium are among the elements that should be added to the water on a regular basis.
Yellow Gorgonian Provides Shelter
Many creatures are drawn to the interlacing branches of the yellow gorgonian and will frequently settle around its branches. Seahorses especially favor the yellow gorgonian and make a nice complement to any aquarium containing the coral.
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