Sea Fan

About

Found along the coastlines of Southern Africa, Leptogorgia bayeri is a gorgonian sea fan that brings dramatic, tree-like structure to the saltwater aquarium. Like most members of this genus, it grows in a flattened, branching form that orients itself perpendicular to the current, a habit that reflects exactly how it feeds in the wild. By intercepting passing planktonic particles carried on strong water movement. That preference for vigorous flow is one of the first things to get right in captivity, since sluggish circulation leads to tissue recession and algae fouling the branches. It is rated as reef safe, so it can share a system with corals and invertebrates without causing direct harm to neighbors. Care sits at an intermediate level, which is honestly fair. Gorgonians as a group can be finicky about consistent feeding and water quality, and this species is no exception. Regular target feeding with small-particle foods like copepods or rotifers will go a long way toward keeping the polyps extended and the colony thriving. Lighting needs are moderate rather than intense, since this is a predominantly non-photosynthetic or low-photosynthetic gorgonian that relies more on heterotrophic feeding than on zooxanthellae. Experienced reef keepers who enjoy the challenge of a filter-feeding coral will find it a rewarding addition.