Annella
Annella is a genus of colonial hydroids in the family Lafoeidae. It is known for its distinctive and often colorful colonies that are found in a variety of marine environments worldwide.
Common Names
There are no widely recognized common names for members of the genus Annella. They are typically referred to by their scientific names.
Characteristics
Annella species are characterized by their branching, feathery colonies. The individual polyps, called hydranths, are typically small and have a distinctive ring of tentacles around their mouths. They also possess a well-developed perisarc, a protective, chitinous covering that forms a rigid skeleton for the colony. The colonies can vary in size and shape depending on the species, with some reaching several centimeters in length.
Environments
Annella species are found in a variety of marine environments, including:
- Rocky shores
- Seaweed beds
- Coral reefs
- Deep-sea environments
They are typically found in shallow to moderate depths, but some species have been recorded from deeper waters. Annella are often associated with other marine organisms, such as algae, sponges, and tunicates.
References
For more information on Annella, please refer to the following resources: