Orange Encrusting Zoanthid [Cyclozoanthus scopulus]
Description
The Orange Encrusting Zoanthid is a colonial species that is often found in rocky or coral substrates in subtropical and tropical waters. They are characterized by their bright orange coloration and their polyps, which are circular and tightly packed. These marine invertebrates have a unique ability to encrust over the surfaces they inhabit, forming a continuous layer of individuals. Behaviorally, they are sessile and remain attached to the substrate throughout their lifetime. They feed by capturing plankton with their tentacles and are also capable of photosynthesis due to their symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Jellyfish, Sea Anemones, and Relatives
Cnidaria
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Sea Anemones and Corals
Anthozoa
|
| Order |
Zoanthids
Zoantharia
|
| Family |
Abyssoanthids
Abyssoanthidae
|
| Genus |
Cyclozoanthus
Cyclozoanthus
|