Southern Hydroid [Lafoea australis]
Description
The Southern Hydroid or Lafoea australis is a hydroid species native to the Southern Ocean. It has a similar appearance to its northern counterparts, with branched colonies that are often a pale yellow color. This species prefers colder waters and is mostly found in deeper, offshore habitats. Like other hydroids, the Southern Hydroid is sessile and feeds by capturing small plankton with its tentacles.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Jellyfish, Sea Anemones, and Relatives
Cnidaria
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Hydroids, Fire Corals, and Stinging Anemones
Hydrozoa
|
| Order |
Leptothecata
Leptothecata
|
| Family |
Calyptoblastea
Lafoeidae
|
| Genus |
Lafoea
Lafoea
|