Gulf coast aquascape

[Aiden Graves]

Hey reefing people I was wondering if I could do a gulf coast biotope aqurium. Like what kind of corals would I get; anemones, crabs, small fish, etc... I know mushroom coral and Haitian anemones come from the gulf, but what else?

 

[Ron Reefman]

There isn't much in the way of colorful corals. I get some nice green zoas and there are ricordia. Also some of the gorgonians can be quite pretty. As far as anemones go, lots and lots of colorful rock flower anemones, condy anemones (although they are now illegal to collect in Florida).
Lots of crabs, snails, sea stars and sea cucumbers. And a number of nice tropical fish.

You might look over this thread: https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/snorkeling-collecting-discussion-group.412414/

Since I collect in the Gulf of Mexico and the Florida Keys, I'll be happy to offer advice.

 

[Aiden Graves]

Thanks for the feedback! I know that hard corals can be a little harder to care for but what about gorgonians?

 

[Peace River]

Another possibility for a Gulf coast biotope would be driftwood, native plants/macro algae, DIY oyster clutches, shore fishes, and various native inverts.

 

[Ron Reefman]

Thanks for the feedback! I know that hard corals can be a little harder to care for but what about gorgonians?

I've found gorgonians to be a bit of a hit or miss species. I've collected some that only lived for 2 to 4 months in my tank (probably my fault). Others I've collected have lived and grown very well. I have 2 colonies in my tank now and the are doing fine.

If you aren't familiar with them, some can look like they are dying and falling apart. But they occasionally will pull in all the polyps, then shed the outer layer to rid themselves of algae. Gorgonians tend to like water that is a bit 'dirty' or nutrient rich, but they can adapt to clean tanks.

Gulf Coast Eco Systems usually have a pretty good supply. They are in west central Florida and he collects all his own local algae, plants, gorgonians and more. I've met the owner a few times at local SW Florida frag swaps and he's been very helpful.