Muricea elongata | XL

Muricea elongata is a striking gorgonian soft coral known for its slender, elongated branches and fine polyps that gently sway with aquarium currents. This extra large specimen offers a dramatic focal point in mature reef tanks, enhancing natural aesthetics and biodiversity.

Care Level: Moderate to advanced. Requires stable water parameters and attentive husbandry.

Lighting: Moderate lighting is recommended, ideally using LED or T5 fixtures that provide a balanced spectrum. Avoid intense direct light to prevent bleaching.

Water Flow: Moderate to strong, indirect water movement is ideal to ensure polyp extension and prevent detritus accumulation without causing tissue damage.

Placement: Position in an area with good water circulation but shielded from direct, forceful currents. Provide adequate spacing from neighbouring corals to avoid aggressive interactions.

Diet: Primarily photosynthetic via symbiotic zooxanthellae, but benefits from supplemental feeding of planktonic foods such as phytoplankton or marine snow to promote growth and vibrancy.

Reef Compatibility: Yes, with adequate spacing. This species is generally reef safe but may exhibit mild allelopathic effects if placed too close to other corals.

Origin: Not Provided.

Maximum Size: Can reach up to 30 cm in height under optimal conditions.

Minimum Tank Size: Recommended for tanks of 100 litres or larger to accommodate growth and water quality stability.

Regular monitoring of water quality, including stable salinity, temperature, and nutrient levels, is essential for long-term health. Avoid sudden changes in lighting or flow to reduce stress. Fragging should be performed by experienced aquarists due to the delicate branching structure.