Pink Soft Coral [Scleronephthya gracillimum]
Description
Scleronephthya gracillimum, or Pink Soft Coral, is a species of soft coral in the family Nephtheidae. It is found in the Western Central Pacific, predominantly around the Philippines and Indonesia. This coral species inhabits depths of 10 to 40 meters. It is characterized by a branching structure with an encrusting base. The branches are flexible and contain polyps that are often retracted during the day and extended at night. Its color can vary from pink to red.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Jellyfish, Sea Anemones, and Relatives
Cnidaria
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Sea Anemones and Corals
Anthozoa
|
| Order |
Soft Corals
Alcyonacea
|
| Family |
Nephtheidae
Nephtheidae
|
| Genus |
Scleronephthya
Scleronephthya
|