Peacock Cup Corals [Stephanocyathus]

Description

Stephanocyathus is a genus within the family Halicyathidae, known as peacock cup corals due to their vibrant colors and intricate patterns that resemble a peacock's feathers. These deep-sea corals form solitary, flared cup shapes with a distinctive stony skeleton. The genus is predominantly found in deep, cold-water environments, often attached to hard substrates such as rocks or sunken objects. The corals feed on microscopic organisms floating in the water, catching these particles with their extended tentacles. Stephanocyathus species play a crucial role in deep-sea ecosystems by providing habitat and contributing to the biodiversity of these environments.

Species

Peacock cup coral [Leptopsammia pruvoti]

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Taxonomy