Gorgonie

About this dive site

This dive site, located on the eastern coast of Catania in Sicily, takes its name from the Gorgonia (Paramuricea clavata), a characteristic Mediterranean coral species. These corals inhabit rocky seabeds at depths ranging from 25 to over 100 meters. They form impressive, tree-like structures up to one meter tall, often creating vibrant underwater gardens teeming with marine life. The surface of the gorgonias is covered in calcareous spires that serve as shelter for retractile polyps, which nourish the coral itself. This creates a diverse ecosystem featuring fish and invertebrates of all kinds.

The dive typically begins at the Diving bay and proceeds along the rocky wall to a depth of approximately 15 meters, then descends gradually into deeper blue waters until reaching a promontory at 25 meters. Here, numerous Gorgonias (Paramuricea clavata) extend themselves from depths of 35 to 40 meters. Among their branches, you'll find Poriferes (sponges), Peltaster placenta (Pentagonal Stars), Crinoidea (Sea Lilies), and Peltodoris atro maculata (Scarlet Velvet Snails). At a depth of 40 meters, a patch of Leptogorgia Sarmentosa – a yellow-colored gorgonian – can be observed. Look closely among its branches for Simnia Spelta (Grogony Sea Urchin).

Experienced divers may encounter barracuda (Sphyraena Viridensis), eagle rays (Myliobatis Aquila), groupers (Epinephelinae), large moray eels (Muraenidae), and sea urchins (Palinurus elephas).