Common name: venus sea fan

General information

The Venus Sea Fan, Gorgonia flabellum, is a species of soft coral that is highly appreciated in the reefkeeping hobby for its intricate, fan-like structure and vibrant colors. It belongs to the Gorgoniidae family and is often found in shades of purple, adding a striking visual element to any reef aquarium.

Unlike stony corals, sea fans do not build calcium carbonate skeletons, but instead have a flexible, internal structure composed of a protein called gorgonin. This allows them to sway gracefully with the water currents, which is not only captivating to watch but also aids in their feeding strategy.

Care

Caring for Venus Sea Fans requires moderate to strong water flow to mimic their natural habitat and facilitate feeding. They are filter feeders, capturing plankton and other small particles from the water column. It's essential to maintain good water quality and provide supplemental feeding with planktonic food designed for filter feeders.

Lighting should be moderate, as excessive light can promote the growth of algae on the fan's surface, which can be detrimental. Regularly inspecting and gently cleaning the sea fan can help prevent such issues.

Symbiosis

Some species of Gorgonia, including the Venus Sea Fan, host a variety of small invertebrates, such as brittle stars and tiny crustaceans. These organisms find shelter within the branches of the sea fan and, in return, may help keep the coral free from debris and parasites.

Habitat

Venus Sea Fans are typically found in the warm waters of the Western Atlantic, from the coast of Florida to the Caribbean Sea. They prefer reef slopes and drop-offs where the water movement is consistent, usually at depths ranging from shallow waters to about 30 meters deep.