The Whip Coral, Spiral Wire Coral, Corkscrew Whip Coral, scientifically known as Cirrhipathes spiralis, is a fascinating and unique coral species found in the deep ocean. These corals are characterized by their distinctive spiral shape, resembling a corkscrew or a wire, hence the common names.
Description & Characteristics
Cirrhipathes spiralis exhibits a slender, branching growth pattern, creating a distinct spiraling structure. The coral’s skeleton is made of black, thorny, and often brittle material, giving it a rough and textured appearance. The polyps of Cirrhipathes spiralis are small and sparsely distributed along the branches.
Habitat and Occurrence
Cirrhipathes spiralis thrives in the deep ocean, specifically within the Mesopelagic zone, which extends from 200 to 1000 meters below the surface. This zone, often referred to as the “twilight zone,” is characterized by low light levels, making it a challenging environment for many organisms. Despite these harsh conditions, Cirrhipathes spiralis has adapted to this unique niche, becoming a common sight in these depths.
Taxonomy
The species Cirrhipathes spiralis belongs to the Class: Hexacorallia, an extensive class of corals that includes both stony and soft corals. Within this class, Cirrhipathes spiralis is further classified under the Order: Antipatharia, a group of corals known for their black skeletons and often thorny structures. Finally, Cirrhipathes spiralis is part of the Family: Antipathidae, which encompasses a wide array of black corals found in various marine environments.
Feeding
Cirrhipathes spiralis is an azooxanthellate coral, meaning it does not possess symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) within its tissues. Therefore, it cannot rely on photosynthesis for energy. Instead, Cirrhipathes spiralis obtains its nutrients by feeding on marine snow, a mixture of organic debris that settles down from the surface waters, and plankton, tiny organisms drifting in the ocean currents. This feeding strategy allows it to survive in the nutrient-poor conditions of the deep ocean.
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