Melithaea splendens

Melithaea splendens is a species of soft coral belonging to the family Melithaeidae. It is a striking and visually appealing organism found in diverse marine environments.

Description & Characteristics

Melithaea splendens is characterized by its distinctive branching structure and vibrant coloration. Its polyps, the individual feeding units of the coral, are typically arranged in clusters along the branches, giving the coral a feathery appearance. The color of Melithaea splendens can vary significantly depending on its location and environmental conditions. It can range from shades of bright orange and yellow to deep red and purple. This species can reach a maximum size of up to 30 cm in height, although it is often found in smaller colonies.

Habitat and Occurrence

Melithaea splendens exhibits a preference for shallow water habitats, typically residing in depths ranging from 5 to 30 meters. It thrives in environments with moderate water currents and ample sunlight, which are necessary for the symbiotic algae living within its tissues to photosynthesize. This species is commonly found in coral reefs, rocky outcrops, and seagrass meadows. Its distribution extends across a wide range of marine zones, including the tropical and subtropical regions of the Indo-Pacific Ocean.

Taxonomy

Melithaea splendens belongs to the Class Octocorallia, a group of colonial marine invertebrates that includes soft corals, sea fans, and sea pens. Within this class, it is further classified under the Order Malacalcyonacea, which encompasses a variety of octocorals characterized by their calcareous spicules and diverse forms. The family Melithaeidae, to which Melithaea splendens belongs, comprises several species of soft corals distinguished by their branching structures and soft, fleshy tissues.

Feeding

Melithaea splendens is a suspension feeder, meaning it obtains its food from particles suspended in the water column. Its polyps extend delicate tentacles with stinging cells called nematocysts, which capture small organisms like plankton and zooplankton. In addition to this heterotrophic feeding method, Melithaea splendens also engages in a symbiotic relationship with algae known as zooxanthellae. These algae reside within the coral’s tissues and photosynthesize, providing the coral with a source of energy. This symbiotic relationship is crucial for the survival and growth of Melithaea splendens, especially in nutrient-poor environments.