Caryophylliidae

Caryophylliidae is a family of stony corals in the order Scleractinia. They are commonly known as “pillar corals” or “cup corals” due to their distinctive shapes. These corals are found in various marine environments, including shallow reefs, deep-sea environments, and even caves. Caryophylliids are known for their diverse morphology, with species ranging from small and delicate to large and robust. They are crucial components of marine ecosystems, providing habitat and food sources for numerous organisms.

North Atlantic Cold-water Coral – Desmophyllum pertusum

Common Names

Caryophylliidae are commonly known as:

  • Pillar corals
  • Cup corals

Characteristics

Caryophylliid corals exhibit several unique characteristics that distinguish them from other scleractinian families:

  • Solitary or colonial: Some species grow as solitary polyps, while others form colonies with interconnected polyps.
  • Skeletal structure: Their skeletons are typically massive and often exhibit a distinct columnar or cup-shaped form.
  • Corallites: Individual coral polyps are housed within structures called corallites, which can be either shallow or deep.
  • Septa: The corallites are internally divided by radial partitions called septa, which can be numerous and highly developed.
  • Columella: The central region of the corallite often contains a solid structure called a columella.
  • Reproduction: Most caryophylliids reproduce sexually, releasing sperm and eggs into the water. Some species are capable of asexual reproduction through budding or fragmentation.

Environments

Caryophylliidae are found in a wide range of marine environments, demonstrating their adaptability. These environments include:

  • Shallow reefs: Some species thrive in shallow, sunlit reef environments.
  • Deep-sea environments: Many caryophylliids are adapted to the cold, dark conditions of the deep sea, often found on seamounts, canyons, and abyssal plains.
  • Caves: Certain species inhabit caves and overhangs, where they find shelter from strong currents and intense sunlight.

References

For more detailed information about Caryophylliidae, consult these reliable online resources: