Non-Photosynthetic Gorgonians

[lawndoctor]

Can anyone share their recipe for long-term success with these creatures? I would like to keep a couple if I can care for them properly. Thanks.

 

[JeremyR]

I've found the big key to be decent flow and regular feedings with something like golden pearls or esv's spray dried phyto. I don't think the liquid green phytos like dt's are useful in feeding these animals. IMO/E.

 

[Anonymous]

Jeremy, thanks for that post!

my orange tree gorgonian isn't looking so good. i just ran out of the green phytoplankton and since it's time to make another order again, i'm gonna try some of the golden pearls or spray dried.

i had a gut feeling that the orange tree didn't like the green phytoplankton because his white polyps wouldn't respond when i shot some DT's his way.

thanks again,
po

 

[DKKA]

I don't think anyone has a recipe for long term success yet. At least not one that is readily duplicated. I've read a few posts where people have had long term success, but that's the exception rather than the rule.
FWIW, my Diodogorgia sp. also doesn't respond much to phyto. They need something with more protein. Mine will consume whole brine shrimp, chopped up formula one, and prime reef flakes. I haven't tried GP's, but have heard good things about them. I try to feed it a couple times a day when the polyps are out. I've also got it on the receiving end of a 150 gal refuge. In spite of all this I've only seen maybe an inch of new growth since I've had it.
They are beautiful, but a lot of work.
Dan

 

[JeremyR]

FWIW, I think the golden pearls are the best bet if you are making a new purchase.. tho I did have luck with the spray dried as well.... but I've seen positive results in alot of other corals with the golden pearls as well, and none of the algae blooms I saw when using cryopastes and such.