Gorgonian Soft Coral [Heteroxenia gorgonia]
Description
Heteroxenia gorgonia, commonly referred to as the Gorgonian Soft Coral, is a marine species in the family Xeniidae. It's found in the Indo-Pacific region, specifically around the Great Barrier Reef. The species forms colonies that look like small bushes, and it's characterized by its polyps which rhythmically expand and contract. This species prefers to inhabit reef slopes and lagoon areas, where it's often found growing on hard substrates.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Jellyfish, Sea Anemones, and Relatives
Cnidaria
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Sea Anemones and Corals
Anthozoa
|
| Order |
Soft Corals
Alcyonacea
|
| Family |
Xeniidae
Xeniidae
|
| Genus |
Heteroxenia
Heteroxenia
|