Cryptonemia crenulata — Gorg Skeleton Petals
When a gorgonian fades, the reef sends flowers.
What You Get
Gorg Skeleton Petals are one of the Caribbean’s most poetic red macros. They are often found blooming from the bases of sponges, tunicates, or the skeletons of long-gone gorgonians. Each specimen features irregular, ruffled blades in shades of red, rust, or orange, depending on depth and lighting.
This species naturally forms compact, encrusting mats that anchor firmly to whatever surface they settle on. In aquaria, it can be gently separated into smaller starter pieces, which will widen and grow up and out when provided adequate nutrients and flow.
Why It Is Algaesome
-
Habitat storyteller: Brings the “life after life” reef dynamic into your display.
-
Ruffled beauty: Semi-flexible, clumping, petal-like blades add unique texture.
-
Thrives in shade: Prefers low or indirect light, so it is perfect for underhangs and rock bases.
-
Low maintenance: Slow-growing, hardy, and undemanding once settled.
-
Display-friendly: Rarely eaten by herbivores and stays naturally compact.
Sizing & Availability
Each specimen is approximately 2–3 inches across. Blade width, waviness, and coloration vary naturally based on depth collected, season, and lighting. It will be still attached to a bit of natural substrate such as as sponge, tunicate, or (most likely) a gorgonian skeleton. Availability may fluctuate. We tend to find Cryptonemia in bomb holes or tidal pools after strong storms or cold fronts move through our area.
Traits
Color Red, rust, or orange
Ease Easy
Classification Red macroalgae
Nutrient Uptake Low
Availability Seasonal (Fall & Winter)
Use Display
Lighting Low
Flow Moderate-High
A Note from the Collectors:
Every macroalga we offer is hand-collected, acclimated, and observed by our team before shipping. Because Cryptonemia often anchors to gorgonians, sponges, or rubble, your specimen may arrive attached to natural substrate—we do this intentionally to preserve its holdfast and ensure successful transfer to your aquarium.
Some pieces may appear slightly lighter in color upon arrival. This is completely normal—macroalgae shift pigments during transport, and color returns within a few days under good lighting and flow.
We ship via 2-Day service on Mondays and Tuesdays only to ensure specimens arrive healthy. You’ll receive tracking as soon as your order ships.
