Black Sea Rod

About

Black sea rod (Plexaura homomalla) is one of the more recognizable gorgonians on Caribbean and Western Atlantic reefs, forming upright, tree-like colonies that can reach impressive heights in relatively shallow water. Typically from the surface down to around 15 meters. Its dark coloration, ranging from deep brown to near-black, sets it apart from the more colorful sea fans sharing the same reef structures. In the wild it grows along reef slopes and patch reefs from Belize northward through Florida and into Canadian Atlantic waters, where it tends to be exposed to consistent water movement. High flow is something to replicate in the aquarium, and this is probably the biggest care consideration for keeping the species healthy long-term. Beyond its appearance, this species earned genuine scientific interest for an unusual reason. Its tissues contain exceptionally high concentrations of prostaglandins, natural compounds rare in such quantities among marine invertebrates, which made it a subject of biochemical research for decades. In a reef tank it is considered safe with corals and invertebrates, though it needs room to grow and good water quality to thrive. It sits in an intermediate care bracket, meaning some prior experience with non-photosynthetic or mixed-feeding gorgonians will serve you well before taking one on.