Plexaurella
Plexaurella is a genus of colonial octocoral, more commonly known as soft corals. These organisms are found in tropical and subtropical marine environments, primarily in the Indo-Pacific region. They are characterized by their flexible, branching structure and their distinctive polyps, which are responsible for feeding and defense.
Common Names
Common names for Plexaurella species vary depending on location and specific characteristics, but some frequently used names include:
- Soft coral
- Sea fan
- Sea whip
- Branching coral
Characteristics
Plexaurella species exhibit several key characteristics that distinguish them from other octocorals:
- Colonial structure: They form large, branching colonies, with individual polyps connected by a common, fleshy base.
- Flexible skeleton: Unlike hard corals, they lack a rigid calcium carbonate skeleton, instead possessing a flexible internal structure composed of spicules, which are microscopic, needle-like structures made of calcium carbonate.
- Polyps: The polyps are typically small and numerous, and they are responsible for feeding and defense. They possess tentacles with stinging cells (nematocysts) used to capture prey.
- Coloration: Plexaurella species exhibit a wide range of colors, including yellow, orange, red, purple, and brown. This coloration is often due to pigments produced by symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) living within the coral tissues.
Environments
Plexaurella species thrive in a variety of marine environments, primarily in tropical and subtropical waters. They are often found in clear, shallow waters, typically on coral reefs, but they can also inhabit deeper waters, up to 100 meters. These corals prefer environments with moderate water flow, which brings them food and oxygen.
References
For more detailed information on Plexaurella, consult the following reliable resources: