Southern Thread-Branch Hydroid [Eudendrium merulum]
Description
The Southern Thread-Branch Hydroid, commonly found in the Southern Atlantic Ocean, is a smaller species, typically growing between 2-5 cm tall. Unlike its northern counterpart, it forms sparser colonies, often on eelgrass or other hydroids. The polyps are translucent white and can retract into the stems. This species feeds on tiny plankton.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Jellyfish, Sea Anemones, and Relatives
Cnidaria
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Hydroids, Fire Corals, and Stinging Anemones
Hydrozoa
|
| Order |
Leptothecata
Leptothecata
|
| Family |
Plumulariid hydroids
Aglaopheniidae
|
| Genus |
Thread-Branch Hydroids
Gymnangium
|