Rumphella sea whip (Rumphella aggregata) care guide

Group
Corals
Other names
Rumphella, Bushy sea whip
Family
Gorgoniidae
Origin
Indo-Pacific, on shallow reefs
Water
saltwater
Care level
intermediate
Reef safe
yes
Lighting
Moderate to high
Flow
Strong, alternating

Care

Rumphella aggregata is an Indo-Pacific sea whip forming a bushy cluster of thin, cylindrical branches. It is usually grey, brown or cream with small polyps, and contains zooxanthellae. Neither LiveAquaria nor Top Shelf Aquatics lists this species; the figures are general guidance for the genus, not from a source. For comparison, LiveAquaria's photosynthetic Briareum gorgonian is rated easy, with high light, strong flow, 22–26 °C and pH 8.1–8.4. Mount it upright on the rockwork with strong, alternating flow. Growth is moderate. Sources: LiveAquaria (liveaquaria.com/products/sea-stalk-briareum-waiting-on-photo). Checked October 2026.

Diet

Mainly photosynthetic; it also takes fine particulate foods.

Breeding

Easy: cut a branch with sharp scissors and glue or wedge the base into a plug or rock hole.

Compatibility and tank mates

Peaceful. Keep it away from corals with sweeper tentacles.

Last updated 8 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.

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