Briareum asbestinum
Briareum asbestinum belongs to the soft corals widely distributed in the western Atlantic Ocean: south Florida, the Caribbean, the Bahamas and Bonaire. It grows in large colonies on dead gorgonarians and madrepore corals at depths of 1-12 m. Rarely encountered in trade.
Briareum asbestinum has, depending on habitat, grey, brown or greenish coloured tentacles, with basal connective tissue being grey or lilac in colour. The polyps reach a height of 1.5 cm and the corolla of the tentacles is about 1 cm in diameter. In general, Briareum asbestinum consists of one to several vertical, unbranched stems that arise from a common base. The tentacles look like thick fur or hair when spread out.
Briareum asbestinum adapt quickly to life in an aquarium environment. They tolerate changes in a wide range of water parameters and light well. However, normal development requires clear water and bright light. Also ensure strong water flow in the aquarium, e.g. by using a water pump for this purpose. This will prevent the lower algae from developing on their tentacles. Not aggressive to reef fish.
Water parameters: temperature 22-27° C, pH 8,0-8,4, salinity 1.023-1.025. Requires good filtration. The volume of the aquarium must be at least 200 liters.
In general, Briareum asbestos corals, not very demanding to its content and under normal conditions, quickly develop, in a short time by covering the glass, the aquarium decoration and all aquarium equipment, including cables and plastic tube water filter. Overgrowing corals should be removed periodically to allow other species to thrive normally.
The coral feeds on symbiotic algae and zooplankton. Under aquarium conditions Briareum asbestinum feeding nauplii Artemia, as well as specialized feeds for corals.
Reproduction
Multiplying coral is relatively easy, just cut it into two pieces with a sharp knife. Occasionally a piece of coral loose from the main colony may be found in the aquarium, which can be placed in a new location and will soon begin to grow.
