How difficult is it to keep Swiftia (Orange Tree Gorgonian)?

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 Swiftia (Orange Tree Gorgonian)?

The ideal temperature for Swiftia (Orange Tree Gorgonian) is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

What is the typical price for Swiftia (Orange Tree Gorgonian)?

The price of Swiftia (Orange Tree Gorgonian) varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

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Swiftia (Orange Tree Gorgonian)

Q: What should I feed Swiftia (Orange Tree Gorgonian)?

Swiftia (Orange Tree Gorgonian) feeds on: Zooplankton and phytoplankton (feeding is mandatory; it does not photosynthesise). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

Advanced

Swiftia exserta

A gorgonian from Florida to the Caribbean with slender, vivid red-orange branches and white to pale yellow polyps. It lacks zooxanthellae, so feeding is mandatory and it suits experienced keepers.

Difficulty

Advanced

Temperature

24〜27℃

Diet

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

About

Swiftia exserta is a plexaurid gorgonian of the western Atlantic, from off Florida through the Bahamas to the Gulf of Mexico. A soft gorgonin axis branches finely in a single plane to form a fan. The branch tissue is a vivid red-orange and the white to pale yellow polyps give strong colour contrast, so it is sold as the orange tree gorgonian. Like most gorgonians it is non-photosynthetic and holds no zooxanthellae, so lighting will not sustain it. Phytoplankton and fine zooplankton must be offered several times a day to keep polyps open across the whole colony. That feeding load degrades water quality, so skimming and water changes are essential. Use strong random flow and keep sediment from collecting between branches.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Temperature & humidity for the Swiftia (Orange Tree Gorgonian)

The ideal temperature for the Swiftia (Orange Tree Gorgonian) is 24〜27℃.

Basic Info

Origin

Western Atlantic (off Florida, Bahamas, Gulf of Mexico)

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 spot or under an overhang suits it.

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: Swiftia exserta (Ellis & Solander, 1786)

Synonyms: Gorgonia exserta, Thesea gemmata

Authority databases: WoRMS

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Octocoral, order Malacalcyonacea (Swiftia exserta, Plexauridae). 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.