Single-Stalked Sea Pen [Helicascus]

Description

Helicascus is a genus of sea pens belonging to the family Umbellulidae, notable for their simple, elegant structure. These organisms consist of a single, slender stalk that branches out into smaller, feather-like appendages towards the top, which house the polyps responsible for feeding. Helicascus species are deep-sea dwellers, found in mud or soft sediment environments where they anchor themselves. They are known for their solitary stalk that can reach considerable lengths, allowing them to stand out from the surrounding seabed. The genus is adapted to low-light conditions found in deep waters and utilizes a filter-feeding strategy to capture plankton and detritus from the surrounding water.

Species

Taxonomy