Deep-sea Black Coral [Bathypathes alternata]
Description
A deep-sea dwelling black coral species. It is commonly found in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans at depths ranging from 400 to 1500 meters. The coral forms large, bushy colonies with distinct alternately arranged branches. Its polyps are small and white, contrasting against the dark skeletal structure.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Jellyfish, Sea Anemones, and Relatives
Cnidaria
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Sea Anemones and Corals
Anthozoa
|
| Order |
Black Corals
Antipatharia
|
| Family |
Schizopathid Corals
Schizopathidae
|
| Genus |
Bathypathes
Bathypathes
|