Yellow Gorgonian

About

The yellow gorgonian (Eunicella cavolini) is a sea fan native to the Mediterranean, making it something of an unusual presence in the reef hobby compared to the Indo-Pacific and Caribbean species that dominate most tanks. Like all gorgonians, it is sessile, anchoring itself to hard substrate and extending its polyps into the water column to filter passing nutrients. The branching, fan-shaped colony takes on a warm yellow coloration that gives the species its common name. Because it comes from subtropical Mediterranean waters rather than tropical reef environments, it occupies a slightly different niche than the typical reef coral, and that subtropical origin is worth keeping in mind when thinking about long-term husbandry. It is considered reef safe and is rated as approachable for less experienced keepers, which is a reasonable assessment for a gorgonian as long as its basic needs are met. Moderate water movement is important to keep detritus from settling on the branches and to deliver the small particulate matter it feeds on. Moderate lighting suits it well. If you are looking for something a little different from the standard coral lineup and want a piece of Mediterranean marine life in your system, this fan coral is a genuinely interesting option.