Gorgonian shedding toxic?

[John3]

Hi everyone,

can anyone tell me if when gorgonians she’d they release any toxins?

I have a massive purple one that came with some gulf live rock that is shedding. I have the same torch in 3 different locations not close by that all seem to be shriveling. Water quality is good on all major parameters. All other corals sucks as acans, blastos, mushrooms seem to be unaffected.

Don’t know much about the gorg. It’s never looked healthy as the polyp extension is not great. There are baby ones on the rock growing and look furry with great polyp exertion. It’s been in the tank for almost a year now.

thanks,

 

[John3]

For reference pics of the gorgonians.

 

[andrewkw]

I've never thought of it as toxic, nor have I seen any ill effects from it but to be honest I really don't know. I have had a large gorgonian that sheds about once a year for the past several years. The first few years I had it it never shed, but once it got huge it has. It can take care of itself more or less but I usually take a paper towel and wipe it down as best I can. The polyps will open much faster this way and things will be back to normal.