Antillogorgia
Antillogorgia is a genus of octocorallian sea fans in the family Gorgoniidae. They are commonly known as sea whips or sea feathers and are found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the western Atlantic Ocean. These colonial organisms are characterized by their distinctive fan-shaped or whip-like growth forms, often displaying vibrant colors ranging from yellow to orange and purple. Antillogorgia species are important components of coral reef ecosystems, providing habitat and shelter for various marine invertebrates and fishes.
Characteristics
Antillogorgia species share several common characteristics that distinguish them from other octocorals. Their colonies consist of a central axis or core, which is typically made of a proteinaceous material called gorgonin. This core is surrounded by a layer of polyps, which are small, individual organisms that form the feeding and reproductive units of the colony. Polyps possess eight tentacles, which are covered in stinging cells called nematocysts that they use to capture prey. The polyp structure and arrangement, along with the overall colony morphology, are important features used in identifying different species within the genus.
Environments
Antillogorgia species are typically found in shallow, clear waters on coral reefs and rocky substrates. They prefer environments with moderate water currents and ample sunlight. These octocorals can tolerate a range of temperatures and salinities, but they are most abundant in tropical and subtropical regions. Some species are also known to occur at greater depths, up to 100 meters or more.
Common Names
Antillogorgia species are commonly known as sea whips, sea feathers, or simply gorgonians. These names reflect the varied shapes and appearances of different species within the genus. Some specific species may have additional common names, depending on their geographic distribution and local usage.
References
For more detailed information and specific species descriptions, refer to the following resources: