Pterogorgia anceps - (Angular Sea Ribbon)
Get your reef into the groove!
What You Get
The Angular Sea Ribbon, Pterogorgia anceps, is a photosynthetic gorgonian native to Florida waters and throughout the Caribbean. Unlike most branching gorgonians, its branches are flattened into narrow, blade-like ribbons with distinct angular edges, creating an almost triangular look in the aquarium.
Tiny polyps line the edges of each blade, adding subtle texture when extended. Its unique growth form makes it instantly recognizable among Caribbean gorgonians and an excellent choice for reef keepers looking to add realism to their aquascape. Like other photosynthetic gorgonians, it thrives under strong, full-spectrum lighting and moderate to strong water movement.
Why It’s GORGeous
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Unique form: Wide, trianglular blades with a raised groove give this gorgonian a 3D look from any angle.
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Color: Warm tan-purple tones that pair beautifully with brighter corals and macroalgae.
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Polyps: Small polyps outline the branches, giving contrast to the triangular look.
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Photosynthetic: Contains symbiotic zooxanthellae and thrives under full-spectrum reef lighting.
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Community-friendly: Can be placed near others of the same species.
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Self-cleaning: Like many gorgonians, it will periodically shed a thin layer to clear film and sediment.
Sizing & Availability
We offer single Angular Sea Ribbon Gorgonian specimens mounted on reef plugs, typically ranging from 4–7 inches tall at the time of shipping. Blade width, branching, and overall shape vary naturally depending on collection site and flow exposure on the reef. Availability can shift with season, tides, and weather, but this species is regularly encountered in Florida waters.
Traits
Color Tan–yellow/purple blades; tan polyps
Ease Easy–Intermediate
Classification Photosynthetic gorgonian
Nutrient Uptake None. It's a gorg! ;)
Use Display specimen
Lighting Moderate–High (full-spectrum)
Flow Moderate–Strong, cross-flow
Availability Regularly collected in Florida
A Note from the Collectors:
Every gorgonian we offer is hand-collected, acclimated, and observed by our team before shipping. While we carefully try to remove algae, sponges, and tiny hitchhikers, it’s possible that a few “goodies” from the reef may tag along — it's a natural part of receiving genuine wild-collected specimens!
Photosynthetic gorgonians like Pterogorgia acne's may occasionally shed a thin outer layer as part of their normal maintenance. This temporary “peeling” phase helps clear film and debris; once it passes, you’ll often see improved polyp extension and cleaner, more defined blade surfaces. This is especially common when adjusting to a new tank.
We ship via 2-Day service on Mondays and Tuesdays only to ensure specimens arrive healthy. Tracking information is provided as soon as your order ships.