Propagating Pterogorgia citrina (Yellow Sea Whip)

Propagating the photosynthetic Caribbean blade gorgonian Pterogorgia citrina: branch-tip fragmentation, mounting on rubble, and the light and flow that drive its zooxanthellate growth.

Overview

Pterogorgia citrina is a Caribbean gorgonian in the family Gorgoniidae, one of a small group of blade-type sea whips. Phylogenetic study of the genus separates species mainly by calyx and branch morphology, placing P. citrina in a clade distinct from P. anceps. Its flat-bladed branches carry polyps along the edges.

Reproductive Mode

Pterogorgia is a photosynthetic gorgonian whose tissues hold zooxanthellae; this symbiotic relationship provides nutrition through photosynthesis. Because so much of its energy comes from light, the genus is regarded as undemanding in the aquarium and is propagated chiefly by asexual fragmentation rather than by rearing larvae.

Fragging / Asexual Propagation

Propagation follows the standard gorgonian method: cut a section of blade with sharp shears and remount it. As with other gorgonians, if part of a branch is damaged it can be cut away with scissors without harming the rest of the colony, and healthy cuttings encrust onto a plug quickly.

Choose a healthy blade segment on a colony in good condition.
Cut a tip cleanly with sharp shears.
Glue or wedge the cutting into rubble or a plug.
Provide moderate-to-high light and strong flow.

Feeding & Conditions for Propagation

Photosynthetic gorgonians do best under moderate-to-high lighting for several hours a day, paired with strong flow. Sufficient flow blows off the thin mucus membrane these corals periodically shed, ensuring better overall health while the new cutting heals. Heavy target feeding is not required for this zooxanthellate species.

Common Challenges

Photosynthetic gorgonians such as Pterogorgia are sensitive mainly to major swings in pH or salinity, and to stagnant flow that leaves the mucus film in place. Keeping water parameters stable and flow strong is the most reliable way to carry a fresh frag through to encrustation.