purple whip gorgonian

Very pretty!

Is it photosynthetic though...?

That's what I am trying to find out. I doubt it is because if I start my metal halide it is quickly hiding its polyps, even though it is at the far end of the aquarium and in the shade. I think it's non photosynthetic pain in the neck, but a very beautiful one.

Looks REALLY beautiful!

I've heard conflicting things... but in any case, all gorgs can benefit from feedings. In this case, I've had local reefers say that the purple gorg is photosynthetic, the one that's called "purple ribbon gorg". Not sure if Purple whip = purple ribbon though.

Hopefully someone can clarify.

I believe Purple Whip and Ribbon Gorgs are the same thing and they are photosynthetic.

I don't believe the one in the photo is of the same species and is not photosynthetic.

wow that would be cool if it was photosynthetic, but if it is photosynthetic, why does it close up when I open the light? not a typical zymbiotic coral behavior.

From that I concluded that it was not photosynthetic, from its response to ligth (closing) and from its response to feeding (open real quick).

Also the branches are cylindric in form, not wierdly shaped like the photos of the ribbon gorg I see, so not sure that is a ribbon gorg.

I have two gorgonians, one whip and one ribbon, so I don't think they are the same. Whip has cylindrical branches and ribbon has flat branches from what I've read/seen. Either way, that is a sweet looking gorg.

Do you know if the whip is photosynthetic? and by any chance, do you know it's scientific name beside purple whip coral? mine is cylindrical, not flat at all.

I'm almost 100% certain that the flat ones (ribbon) are photosynethetic... sorry I don't know what your cylindrical one is. Chanches are it is NOT PS and you will have to feed it regularly.

Yes the purple ribbon is photosynthetic. I have no clue what I have though.

I would hit up the owner of the May reef profile with a PM. Looks like he has some whip gorgs that are thriving. From the looks of it, he would be able to answer any questions you have!

Ok thanks I will do that and ask him.