Photosynthetic Gorgonians, anyone try one before?

[DarkXerox]

I've been interested in a gorgonian for awhile but I've been afraid of their care (phyto feedings, oyster eggs, etc). However, I know that some species from the Caribbean are photosynthetic.

Does anyone here have one (with pictures so I can get an idea)? I've always been curious about these.

 

[Mr. Ugly]

I have a purple Caribbean one that's been doing well.

Some info here:

http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/prod_Display.cfm?pCatId=608

Steve at New Alameda has the same kind, I think.

 

[sfsuphysics]

I got the end piece (the good end) of the one chopped up from the bar coral fragging workshop some time ago.. I don't actively feed it at all, my tank probably has enough gunk in it that it gets food.

 

[doliver]

Sea Life (http://sealifeinc.net/) has several different gorgonians available and the notes indicate which ones are photosynthetic.

 

[juaninsac]

A very nice photosynthetic species from the Caribbean is Pseudopterogorgia bipinnata.

This is a picture from WWM (not mine). The color of the base is a vivid purple, the polyps are brown when open. The morphology is distinct and unmistakeable.

It's a very common and reasonably easy to care for gorgonian. When I worked at UCD we had one for at least 3 years that grew steadily. It will accept small planktonic foods as well.

 

[Dyngoe]

I have a purple Gorgonian that is great and grows quickly. No need to feed this one, but I'm sure he gets some when I feed the rest.

 

[Nukeproof]

I think I have the one juaninsac is talking about. I got it from the BAR frag swap several swap back. They grow really easy for me. I don't spot feed it with anything except the stuff I give my fish and the Cyclopeeze.

If you are in Oakland, I could cut you a piece to try.

Patrick

 

[orientalexpress]

i got one those also from bar frags swap ,didn't grow at all ,but it's healthy tho


lapsan

 

[DarkXerox]

Cool yeah, so I guess the purple ones with brown polyps are photosynthetic for sure. I remember seeing a few tanks in Italy with these purple type gorgonians and they seemed to thrive. Thanks for the info guys.

Patrick, yeah I'll PM you about it.