Antipatharia Black Coral

[mollymonticello]

My mom was asking me if I had any "Black Coral" in my aquarium. She told me that her boss has a piece of "Black Coral" and that it is protected now. I looked it up, and I know it refers to the Order "Antipatharia" but was wondering if anyone had some more information (related to our hobby), just for curiosity. They look a lot like gorgonians.

 

[lancer99]

Are you sure it's really a black coral? If it's black, then it's not a black coral (unless it's dead, lol).

The only coral I can think of that's really black is the black sun coral, Tubastrea micrantha.

According to Sven & Fossa's "The Modern Coral Reef Aquarium" not much is known about the care of Antipatharia in aquaria, but they are non-photosynthetic so require small food, and like strong currents.

HTH,
-R

 

[mollymonticello]

They are called "black coral" because the actual skeleton is black. The skeletons are highly sought after for use in jewelry, which is why the corals are protected now. The skin is colored, though, when it's alive.

 

[lancer99]

Yeah, that's kinda what I said.

What exactly is your question?

-R

 

[mollymonticello]

I'm just trying to start a conversation about it. I'm curious. I'm wondering if anyone has any experience at all with this type of coral. Has anyone seen it while diving? Had a necklace made out of it? Kept them in their aquarium? Are they temperate or tropical? etc.