Add height, movement, and striking purple coloration to your reef with the ORA Purple Gorgonian Coral. This fully photosynthetic soft coral develops slender, intensely purple branches covered with delicate polyps.

Its upright, tree-like growth creates a completely different shape from traditional branching stony corals. Gentle movement through its branches brings a natural sense of motion to the aquarium while adding beautiful vertical contrast to the reefscape.

Unlike non-photosynthetic gorgonians that require frequent feeding, this variety receives most of its nutritional needs through photosynthesis, making it a much more practical choice for the home reef aquarium.

Product Highlights

• Intensely purple branching coloration

• Fully photosynthetic gorgonian

• Does not require constant feeding

• Adds height and movement to the reefscape

• Aquacultured by ORA

• Suitable for soft coral and mixed reef aquariums

• May provide a natural hitching structure for seahorses

• Approximate purchase size: 1.5 inches or larger

Care Information

• Scientific Name: Gorgonia sp.

• Common Name: Purple Gorgonian

• Coral Type: Photosynthetic soft coral

• Care Level: Easy to moderate

• Placement: All levels

• Lighting: Low to high

• Water Flow: Moderate

• Temperament: Peaceful

• Growth Form: Upright branching

• Aquaculture: ORA aquacultured

Placement and Water Flow

Secure the Purple Gorgonian to rockwork where it can remain upright and receive moderate, indirect water movement. Position it so water passes across and through its branches rather than directly blasting one side.

Proper circulation helps prevent algae and debris from settling on its branches while encouraging healthy polyp extension. Its branches should move gently without being violently whipped around.

Leave several inches between the gorgonian and neighboring corals to prevent contact and allow room for growth.

Lighting and Acclimation

Because this gorgonian is fully photosynthetic, it requires suitable reef lighting but can adapt to a relatively wide range of intensities.

Begin it under moderate lighting and gradually acclimate it to brighter conditions. Its final coloration and polyp extension may vary depending on lighting spectrum, intensity, water flow, and aquarium conditions.

Feeding

Supplemental feeding is not required for survival because this variety obtains most of its energy through photosynthesis.

It may capture fine plankton and suspended coral foods from the water column, but feeding should be performed sparingly to avoid unnecessarily affecting water quality.

Special Handling

Handle the coral carefully and avoid damaging its living tissue. Do not allow algae or debris to remain on exposed areas of its branches.

Research the suitability of any coral dip before use because gorgonians may react poorly to harsh treatments or incorrect dip concentrations.

Important Live Coral Notice

The photograph represents the species, coloration, and typical growth pattern. Every coral is a unique living specimen, so its exact size, shape, coloration, polyp appearance, and branch structure may vary.

Live Animal Shipping

This coral ships using our $39.99 Overnight Live Animal Shipping profile. Qualifying live animal orders totaling $300 or more ship free.

Live animal shipping charges do not combine with standard merchandise or other shipping profiles. Orders are generally shipped Monday through Thursday, subject to livestock availability, weather conditions, and safe delivery scheduling.