Eugorgia
Eugorgia is a genus of soft corals in the family Plexauridae. It is a diverse genus, with about 30 species found in the Indo-Pacific region. Common names for these corals include “sea whips” and “sea fans” due to their branching, whip-like or fan-like shapes.
Characteristics
Eugorgia corals are characterized by their flexible, branching skeletons made of gorgonin, a protein that gives them their unique flexibility. They can grow to varying sizes, with some species reaching up to several meters in height. The branches are often covered in polyps, which are small, tubular structures that contain the coral's feeding and reproductive organs. Eugorgia species are typically brightly colored, ranging from yellows and oranges to reds and purples. Some species also display bioluminescence, emitting a faint light.
Environments
Eugorgia corals are found in a variety of marine environments, from shallow reefs to deep waters. They are typically found attached to hard substrates like rocks, corals, and even shipwrecks. They thrive in clear, tropical waters and are important members of reef ecosystems.
References
For further information on the genus Eugorgia, you can consult these online resources: