How difficult is it to keep Junceella (Sea Whip)?

Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.

What is the ideal temperature for Junceella (Sea Whip)?

The ideal temperature for Junceella (Sea Whip) is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

What is the typical price for Junceella (Sea Whip)?

The price of Junceella (Sea Whip) varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Junceella (Sea Whip)

Q: What should I feed Junceella (Sea Whip)?

Junceella (Sea Whip) feeds on: Zooplankton and phytoplankton (feeding is mandatory; it does not photosynthesise). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

Advanced

Junceella fragilis

An octocoral that grows as a single unbranched whip. Slender white or pale yellow colonies form stands; it lacks zooxanthellae and needs frequent feeding, so it suits experienced keepers.

Difficulty

Advanced

Temperature

24〜27℃

Diet

Zooplankton and phytoplankton (feeding is mandatory; it does not photosynthesise)

About

Junceella fragilis is an ellisellid octocoral of the western Pacific, described by Ridley in 1884. Where most gorgonians branch, this species does not, growing instead as a single slender, upright whip, which is its defining feature. Small polyps line the colony surface and the ground colour is white to pale yellowish brown. On well-flushed slopes many colonies stand together to form a distinctive scene. It is non-photosynthetic and holds no zooxanthellae, so lighting provides no energy. Phytoplankton and fine zooplankton must be offered several times a day, and the resulting water quality cost has to be managed with skimming and water changes. Anchor the base firmly so the slender colony does not topple, and give strong random flow.

Temperature & humidity for the Junceella (Sea Whip)

The ideal temperature for the Junceella (Sea Whip) is 24〜27℃.

Basic Info

Origin

Coral reefs of the western Pacific

Temperature

24〜27℃

Diet

Zooplankton and phytoplankton (feeding is mandatory; it does not photosynthesise)

Care Guide

Lighting

No zooxanthellae, so lighting is unnecessary; a shaded position is fine.

Flow & Placement

Give strong random flow and anchor the base firmly so the slender colony does not topple.

Care Specifications

Water Temp.: 24–27℃
Specific Gravity: 1.023–1.025
Salinity: 33–35 ppt

Soft coralLight: Low (PAR 30-50)Flow: HighPlacement: Flexible

Sources: Wikipedia: Reef aquarium (water parameters) / AlgaeBarn: Gorgonians in the Marine Aquarium / AlgaeBarn: Feeding Your NPS Aquarium / AlgaeBarn: Natural Water Quality Management for Non-Photosynthetic Reef Aquaria

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team

The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Junceella fragilis Ridley, 1884

Synonyms: Junceella squamata

Authority databases: WoRMS

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Octocoral, order Scleralcyonacea (Junceella fragilis, Ellisellidae). Not listed by CITES: it belongs to none of Scleractinia, Antipatharia, Helioporidae, Tubiporidae, Milleporidae or Stylasteridae.

Sources: DOC NZ / CITES-listed corals (taxon not listed) / CITES Appendices

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.