Leiopathes [Leiopathes]

Description

Leiopathes is a genus of long-lived black corals in the family Antipathidae. These corals are known for their tree-like structure, with a rigid central axis and branches that support a dense array of polyps. Found in both shallow and deep marine environments, Leiopathes corals are distinguished by their slow growth rates and can live for thousands of years, making them some of the oldest living marine organisms. They serve as important habitat for a variety of marine life and are key indicators of environmental changes.

Species

Deep-water Black Coral [Leiopathes grimaldii]

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Taxonomy