Myriopathidae

Myriopathidae is a family of deep-sea corals that belong to the order Antipatharia, commonly known as black corals. They are distinguished by their unique morphology and are widely distributed throughout the world’s oceans.

Black Coral – Antipathella wollastoni

Common Names

Myriopathidae corals are often referred to as wire corals due to their thin, branching skeletons that resemble tangled wires. Other common names include black whip corals and lace corals.

Characteristics

Myriopathidae corals share several key characteristics:

  • Skeleton: They have a distinctive, branching skeleton composed of a protein-like substance called gorgonin, which gives them their black color.
  • Polyps: Their polyps are small and inconspicuous, typically arranged in rows along the branches.
  • Growth: Myriopathidae corals grow slowly, and some species can live for hundreds of years.
  • Habitat: They are typically found in deep water environments, from the continental shelf to the abyssal zone.

Environments

Myriopathidae corals thrive in a variety of deep-sea habitats, including:

  • Seamounts: These underwater mountains provide a stable substrate for these corals to attach and grow.
  • Cold seeps: Myriopathidae corals can tolerate the harsh conditions of cold seeps, where hydrogen sulfide and methane are released from the seafloor.
  • Hydrothermal vents: Some species of Myriopathidae corals are found near hydrothermal vents, where hot, mineral-rich fluids are released from the ocean floor.

References