Olindiidae
Olindiidae is a family of hydrozoans in the order Anthoathecata. It includes over 30 species of colonial hydroids, often referred to as fire corals, due to the stinging nematocysts they possess. They are typically found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide.
Common Names
Members of the Olindiidae family are commonly called "fire corals", "stinging corals", or "fire hydroids" due to their venomous nematocysts.
Characteristics
Olindiidae hydroids are characterized by their colonial structure, consisting of polyps connected by a branching network called a coenosarc. They have a distinctive morphology, with a central polyp called a hydranth surrounded by a ring of tentacles. The tentacles are armed with nematocysts, which are stinging cells used for defense and capturing prey.
Some key features include:
- Colonial structure: Consisting of interconnected polyps.
- Hydranth: Central polyp responsible for feeding.
- Tentacles: Ring of tentacles armed with nematocysts.
- Coenosarc: Branching network connecting polyps.
Environments
Olindiidae hydroids are primarily found in tropical and subtropical waters, often inhabiting shallow, rocky reefs, coral reefs, and seagrass beds. They are generally found attached to hard substrates, such as rocks, shells, and other marine organisms.