The Purple Sea Plume (Antillogorgia acerosa) is a striking and widespread gorgonian coral species found throughout the Caribbean Sea. Known for its vibrant purple hues and delicate, feathery branches, it is a common sight in the underwater landscapes of this region.
Description & Characteristics
Antillogorgia acerosa is a colonial organism, meaning it consists of numerous tiny polyps that are interconnected and work together. These polyps are housed within a tough, flexible skeleton composed of gorgonin, a type of protein. The branches of the Purple Sea Plume are typically slender and branching, forming a plume-like structure that can reach a maximum height of around 15 cm. Its most distinguishing feature is its vibrant purple coloration, often with a slightly iridescent quality.
Habitat and Occurrence
Antillogorgia acerosa is a common resident of shallow reefs and rocky outcrops throughout the Caribbean Sea. It is typically found in depths ranging from 10 to 50 meters, with the most abundant populations occurring in the mesophotic zone. This zone represents a transition between the shallow, sunlit reef environments and the deeper, darker waters.
The Purple Sea Plume prefers habitats with moderate current flow and good water quality. It is commonly found on reefs, rocky outcrops, and even on hard-bottom substrates. The Purple Sea Plume thrives in the warm waters of the Caribbean, where temperatures range from 25 to 28 degrees Celsius.
Taxonomy
Antillogorgia acerosa belongs to a group of organisms known as the Octocorallia, characterized by their eight-fold symmetry. It falls within the Order: Malacalcyonacea, which encompasses a diverse group of gorgonian corals. This species is a member of the Family: Gorgoniidae, a family known for their often-branching skeletons and flexible nature.
Feeding
Antillogorgia acerosa utilizes a combination of strategies to obtain food. Like many other corals, it harbors tiny, symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae within its tissues. These algae photosynthesize and provide the coral with a significant portion of its energy requirements.
However, the Purple Sea Plume also relies on direct feeding by catching plankton from the surrounding waters. Tiny polyps on its branches extend their tentacles, which are equipped with stinging cells called nematocysts. These stinging cells paralyze the plankton, allowing the coral to ingest and digest them. This combination of photosynthetic and predatory feeding strategies enables Antillogorgia acerosa to thrive in its diverse and sometimes nutrient-limited habitats.
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