Encrusting gorgonian
Erythropodium caribaeorum
CoralsSaltwater
- Care level
- Easy
- Temperature
- 24–27 °C
- pH
- 8–8.4
- Light
- Medium
- Flow
- High
- Diet
- Photosynthetic
Care at a glance
The encrusting gorgonian forms a thin, leathery mat over rock from which long, feathery polyps wave; in flow the whole thing looks like a moving carpet of feathers. When the polyps retract, all that is left is an inconspicuous purple-brown crust.
It is decidedly easy, tolerates moderate light and likes strong flow, which makes it a rewarding first octocoral. It does grow quickly over everything, though, so place it on its own rock with some space around it.
Related species
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Values are mainstream hobbyist guidance, not gospel — always watch what your own animals need.