The Sea Fan – Muricea purpurea is a vibrant and striking coral species found in the coastal waters of the Eastern Pacific Ocean. This gorgonian coral, also known as the Purple Sea Fan, exhibits a distinctive branching structure and a captivating purple hue, adding a splash of color to the underwater landscape.
Description & Characteristics
The Muricea purpurea is characterized by its fan-shaped colony, which can grow up to 1 meter in height. Its intricate branching pattern creates a delicate and intricate structure, often adorned with numerous polyps. The coral’s color ranges from a rich purple to a deep maroon, depending on its location and environmental factors. The polyps, which are responsible for feeding, are small and numerous, extending from the branches to capture food particles from the surrounding water.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Sea Fan – Muricea purpurea is primarily found in the neritic zone, which encompasses the shallow waters along the continental shelf. Its distribution extends from Southern California to the Gulf of California, making it a common sight in these regions. This species typically inhabits rocky reefs, crevices, and other hard substrates, providing stability and protection. It thrives in areas with moderate water currents, which assist in transporting food and oxygen.
Taxonomy
The species Muricea purpurea belongs to the Class: Octocorallia, Order: Malacalcyonacea, and Family: Plexauridae. These classifications reflect its unique characteristics, such as the presence of eight tentacles in each polyp and a skeleton composed of a flexible, protein-based material called gorgonin.
Feeding
The Muricea purpurea is a non-photosynthetic coral, meaning it does not rely on symbiotic algae for nourishment. It is a suspension feeder, capturing food particles directly from the water column. Its diet consists of a variety of microscopic organisms, including zooplankton, copepods, amphipods, and fish eggs. It may also consume suspended sediment and other organic matter found in the water. This coral’s ability to capture a wide range of food sources contributes to its success in diverse marine environments.
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