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Pinnigorgia

Pinnigorgia

Pinnigorgia is a sun-loving gorgonian coral that hosts symbiotic zooxanthellae inside its tissue. It spreads thin, flexible branches into a fan shape, with delicate, feather-like polyps opening densely across the surface to give a reef tank a cool, airy touch. Compared with many other soft corals, it grows relatively fast, and branches that break off will take root and grow into new colonies once anchored to a base — watching it gradually spread through the tank is part of the appeal. Unlike stony corals with rigid skeletons, its flexible frame sways gently with the current, bringing a sense of motion to the layout. Because it calls for some intermediate-level husbandry knowledge, it's a good fit for keepers who already have a handle on water quality management.

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About Pinnigorgia

Pinnigorgia is a sun-loving gorgonian coral with feathery polyps on fan-shaped branches. It grows quickly and fragments readily, making it fun to propagate, though best suited to intermediate keepers.

7 things to know before welcoming a Pinnigorgia

  1. 1Lighting & Flow

    Because Pinnigorgia hosts symbiotic zooxanthellae, it needs a reasonable amount of light to thrive. Moderate water flow also helps keep its feathery polyps fully extended — aim for gentle movement across the branches rather than a strong, direct current.

  2. 2Fast, Easy Growth

    This gorgonian grows at a fairly quick pace, and broken branch fragments will reattach and grow when secured to a base. Give it some extra room in your layout, since it can spread further than expected as it matures.

  3. 3Placement Matters

    As it grows, Pinnigorgia spreads its branches into a fan shape, so leave plenty of space between it and neighboring corals. Check your layout periodically, since it can eventually grow into contact with nearby pieces.

  4. 4Why Intermediate Level

    It can be sensitive to sudden shifts in water quality or lighting, so it tends to do better in an established, stable tank rather than a newly set-up one. Some prior reef-keeping experience makes it easier to notice small changes early.

  5. 5Acclimation Tips

    When introducing it to a new tank, acclimate it slowly to avoid shocking it with sudden changes in temperature or water chemistry. It's common for the polyps to close up right after the move, but they usually reopen gradually as it settles in.

  6. 6Flexible Skeleton

    Unlike stony corals such as Acropora, Pinnigorgia has a flexible skeleton that sways with the current. That movement brings a natural sense of motion to a reef tank.

  7. 7Watch Polyp Health

    Whether the polyps are fully open is a good day-to-day indicator of health. If they stay closed for an extended period, or you notice pale patches on the branches, it's worth reviewing water quality and placement.

Frequently asked questions about Pinnigorgia

Q.Is Pinnigorgia regulated under CITES?
A.No, Pinnigorgia is not subject to CITES regulation. If you'd like more detail, it's a good idea to check the specific listing before purchasing.
Q.Is it suitable for beginners?
A.Pinnigorgia is generally considered an intermediate-level coral. It's easier to keep healthy once you already have some experience managing water quality and lighting.
Q.How much light does it need?
A.Since it hosts symbiotic zooxanthellae, it does need a reasonable amount of light. It doesn't require anything extreme, though — lighting similar to what other sun-loving corals need works well.
Q.Does it spread quickly in a tank?
A.It grows at a fairly quick pace, and broken fragments will reattach and grow when secured to a base. If it spreads more than you'd like, you can trim and frag it.
Q.Why won't the polyps open?
A.This is often a temporary reaction to changes in water quality, flow, or lighting, or simply a response right after acclimation. If the polyps stay closed for a long time, it's worth reviewing the placement and water conditions.

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Learn more about Pinnigorgia in the encyclopedia

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Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.

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