Peacock cup coral [Leptopsammia pruvoti]
Description
Peacock cup coral is a small, solitary coral species that is native to the Mediterranean Sea and the northeastern Atlantic Ocean. It typically grows in caves, crevices, and under overhangs where sunlight is scarce. The species is known for its unique feeding behavior, which involves extending its tentacles during the daytime to capture prey, unlike most other coral species which feed at night. It is characterized by its vibrant, peacock blue color and its polyps, which are typically retracted during the day and extend at night to feed.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Jellyfish, Sea Anemones, and Relatives
Cnidaria
|
|---|---|
| Class |
True Jellyfish
Scyphozoa
|
| Order |
Stalked Jellyfish
Stauromedusae
|
| Family |
Halicyathidae
Halicyathidae
|
| Genus |
Peacock Cup Corals
Stephanocyathus
|