The White Eye Sea Spray (Thesea nivea) is a captivating marine invertebrate that thrives in the depths of the ocean. This species stands out with its unique morphology and intriguing feeding habits.
Description & Characteristics
The White Eye Sea Spray (Thesea nivea) is a captivating marine invertebrate that thrives in the depths of the ocean. This species stands out with its unique morphology and intriguing feeding habits. It is an azooxanthellat, nonphotosynthetic organism that relies on external sources for sustenance.
Habitat and Occurrence
The White Eye Sea Spray (Thesea nivea) inhabits the Subtidal, sublittoral, infralittoral, deep zone of the oceans, specifically from the lower limit of the intertidal zone (intertidal) to the shelf edge at about 200 m water depth. This zone is often referred to as the neritic zone. Its presence in these marine environments highlights its adaptability and resilience to the unique conditions present in these regions.
Taxonomy
The White Eye Sea Spray (Thesea nivea) belongs to a broader classification scheme within the animal kingdom. It is categorized as a member of the Class: Octocorallia, which encompasses a diverse array of soft corals and sea pens. Within this class, it belongs to the Order: Malacalcyonacea, known for its unique skeletal structures. The White Eye Sea Spray (Thesea nivea) further resides within the Family: Malacalcyonacea incertae sedis, highlighting its unique characteristics within this order.
Feeding
The White Eye Sea Spray (Thesea nivea) is a filter feeder, relying on plankton as its primary food source. Its feeding strategy is crucial for its survival, as it relies on the availability of plankton in its deep-sea habitat. This feeding behavior makes the White Eye Sea Spray (Thesea nivea) an integral part of the marine food web.
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