Gorgonien-Fächerkoralle-Guide

This Soft (Gorgoniidae) coral is rated moderate–difficult difficulty and requires PAR levels of 100–250 with medium–high flow. As a non-photosynthetic coral, it depends entirely on direct feeding for nutrition. Best placed in the open area with flow area of the tank, it has low aggression.

Steckbrief


Type	Soft (Gorgoniidae)
Difficulty	Moderate–Difficult
PAR range	100–250
Flow	Medium–High
Feeding	Photosynthetic or NPS
Growth rate	Slow
Aggression	Low
Placement	Open area with flow

Lichtbedarf

Provide PAR levels of 100–250 µmol for optimal health and coloration. Moderate accuracy in lighting is sufficient, but consistency matters more than hitting exact numbers. When first placing the coral, start with lower light intensity and gradually increase over 1–2 weeks to prevent light shock.

Spectrum matters as well: a mix of blue (420–480 nm) and white light produces the best fluorescence and growth. Many hobbyists run heavier blue spectrums to enhance coral fluorescence while maintaining enough PAR for photosynthesis.

Strömungsbedarf

Strong, chaotic or random flow is essential. Avoid direct, laminar flow pointed at the coral as this can damage tissue. Instead, use opposing powerheads or gyre pumps to create turbulent, variable flow patterns. The coral should sway gently but not be blasted. Dead spots cause detritus accumulation and increase disease risk.

Platzierung

Place this coral in the open area with flow area of your aquascape. This coral has low aggression and plays well with neighbors. Standard spacing of 1–2 inches is usually sufficient, though growth patterns should be monitored over time.

Secure the coral to rockwork using reef-safe gel super glue or epoxy. Ensure it is stable and won't topple—falling corals get stressed and damaged. Let the glue cure briefly before returning the frag to the tank.

Fütterung

As a non-photosynthetic coral, this species depends entirely on direct feeding for survival. Feed daily or every other day with meaty foods: finely chopped Mysis shrimp, Cyclops, rotifers, or specialized NPS coral foods. Use a feeding dome or turn off flow briefly during feeding to ensure the coral captures food particles. NPS corals require a significant commitment to feeding—missing feedings leads to slow starvation.

Fragmentierung

Fragging soft corals is straightforward. Use sharp scissors or a razor blade to cut a section from the parent colony. Attach the frag to a plug or rubble using gel super glue. Soft corals heal quickly and frags typically recover within a few days. Some soft corals like leather corals may shed a waxy coating after fragging—this is a normal healing response.

Häufige Probleme

Tissue recession or bleaching: Usually caused by unstable parameters, excessive light, or chemical aggression from neighboring corals. Investigate recent changes in lighting, dosing, or new coral additions.
Failure to extend polyps: Check flow strength (too strong?), lighting intensity, and water quality. Recent dipping or transport stress can also cause temporary retraction.
Pests: Inspect for flatworms, nudibranchs, or other parasites. A prophylactic coral dip (Coral Rx, Bayer) upon introduction prevents most pest issues.
Slow growth: Ensure adequate feeding, stable alkalinity (8–11 dKH), calcium (400–450 ppm), and magnesium (1300–1400 ppm). SPS corals especially need stable, consistent alkalinity for skeleton building.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

Is this coral good for beginners?

This is an advanced coral that requires stable, pristine water conditions and experience. Beginners should not attempt this coral until they have successfully kept easier species for at least 6–12 months.

What PAR level does this coral need?

Aim for PAR levels of 100–250 µmol at the coral's position. Use a PAR meter to verify actual light levels in your tank, as fixture specs and manufacturer claims often differ from real-world measurements.

How fast does this coral grow?

Growth rate is slow. Factors that influence growth include lighting intensity, flow, feeding regimen, and stable water chemistry. Consistent alkalinity and calcium are the primary drivers of calcification rate in stony corals.