The Blueberry Sea Fan (Acabaria sp.) is a striking gorgonian octocoral admired for its vibrant coloration and delicate fan-like branching structure. As a suspension-feeding cnidarian, it creates an alluring vertical dimension in established marine reef systems.

Physical Description

This gorgonian develops a planar branching architecture supported by a flexible internal gorgonin skeleton. It exhibits a dazzling palette of bright blue and purple branches densely dotted with contrasting polyps that extend into the water column. When fully open, the micro-polyps give the colony a lush and feathered appearance.

Distribution and Habitat

Found in the tropical waters of Indonesia and across the Western Pacific, Acabaria sp. inhabits high-energy reef walls, drop-offs, and underwater caves. It settles on vertical rocky surfaces where continuous ocean currents deliver a steady supply of suspended micro-organisms.

Lighting and Flow Requirements

Moderate lighting is suitable for this species in captive systems. High water flow is essential to keep the branches free of settling detritus and microalgae while delivering organic nutrients directly to its extended polyps.

Feeding and Nutrition

As an obligate filter feeder, it relies heavily on capturing microplankton from the water column rather than photosynthesis alone. Routine target feeding with marine snow, phytoplankton, rotifers, and small zooplankton several times per week is vital for long-term health.

Placement and Compatibility

Secure this sea fan in the mid to high regions of the aquarium directly within strong water currents. It is a completely peaceful coral that does not produce harmful stingers, though it requires sufficient space to avoid physical contact with fast-growing neighboring corals.

Conservation Status

Regional populations in Indonesian waters are monitored under regulated marine export guidelines to ensure ecological sustainability. Classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.