Tropical western Atlantic, Caribbean and Florida, on shallow reefs
Water
saltwater
Care level
intermediate
Reef safe
yes
Lighting
High
Flow
Strong, alternating
Care
Muricea muricata is a bushy Caribbean gorgonian with stiff branches covered in spiky polyp cups. It is usually yellow, tan or brown with pale 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 Briareum (another photosynthetic Caribbean gorgonian) is rated easy, with high light, strong flow, 22–26 °C and pH 8.1–8.4. Mount Muricea upright on the rockwork in strong, alternating flow so the polyps open and detritus does not settle. Growth is moderate. Sources: LiveAquaria (liveaquaria.com/products/sea-stalk-briareum-waiting-on-photo). Checked October 2026.
Diet
Mainly photosynthetic; it also catches fine particles and benefits from phytoplankton or fine coral foods.
Breeding
Easy: cut a branch tip with sharp scissors, strip a little tissue from the cut end and glue or wedge it into a plug or rock hole.
Compatibility and tank mates
Peaceful. Keep it out of reach of sweeper tentacles and away from angelfish and butterflyfish, which may pick at the polyps.
Last updated 8 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.
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