Slimy Sea Plume
Antillogorgia americana
A flowing Caribbean sea fan that brings wild reef movement to the tank.
About
Slimy Sea Plume (Antillogorgia americana) is a gorgonian coral native to the western Atlantic, found in waters around Bermuda and along the United States coastline. In the wild it grows in branching, feathery colonies that sway with the current, and that same flow-dependent nature carries directly into aquarium keeping. This is a coral that genuinely needs strong, consistent water movement to thrive. The branches are lined with tiny polyps that extend to feed when conditions are right, giving the colony a soft, almost fuzzy texture when open. The common name refers to a mucus coating the colony produces, which is completely normal and not a sign of poor health. As a non-photosynthetic or low-light gorgonian, it relies more on particulate feeding than on intense lighting, so moderate illumination suits it well. That feeding requirement is where the intermediate care rating comes from. You need to stay on top of regular target feeding with appropriately sized plankton or prepared gorgonian foods to keep the colony from declining. It is reef safe and won't bother other inhabitants, but it does appreciate some space for its branches to spread without being crowded. A rewarding choice for keepers ready to commit to its feeding schedule.
Similar species
Other coral you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Slimy Sea Plume
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- What does the Slimy Sea Plume eat?
- The Slimy Sea Plume is a filter feeder. It eats tiny particles suspended in the water and usually needs target feeding in a home tank.
- Is the Slimy Sea Plume reef safe?
- The Slimy Sea Plume is generally considered reef safe.