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ALEXANDRE MEINESZ

Red gorgonian

In Dive.Explo360: Mediterranean · Northeast Atlantic · Atlantic Ocean

A forest of Red gorgonians swaying in the current is an unforgettable sight. This species builds large dark-red fans that shelter abundant fauna. The Red gorgonian is fragile and grows very slowly.

Habitat de Red gorgonian Habitat
Wreck, Rocky habitat, Coralligenous habitat
Profondeur de Red gorgonian Depth
8-110 m
Groupe biologique de Red gorgonian Group
Cnidarian
Rôle écologique de Red gorgonian Role
Filter feeder, Ecosystem engineer

WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?

This gorgonian forms fan-shaped colonies, generally highly branched in a single plane. Its colour varies from red to purple, sometimes with yellowish tips depending on the individual or the presence of epibionts. Its branches are flexible but strong and bear numerous small retractile polyps. A colony can reach a considerable size, with a dense structure developing slowly over the years.

WHERE DOES IT LIVE?

It is encountered on rocky substrates well exposed to currents, mainly in the Mediterranean. It attaches to vertical walls, overhangs or sloping areas, from a few metres down to several tens of metres deep.

WHAT DOES IT EAT?

It is a filter-feeding organism. Its polyps catch organic particles and plankton in the water, providing nutrition for the entire colony.

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Other species — Cnidarian

Red Coral Yellow sea fan Pink sea fan White sea fan Orange sea whip Tube-dwelling anemone Black Coral Gold Coral

Same habitat and depth

Wreck species Rocky seabed species Coralligenous habitat species

Same ecological role and depth

Filter-feeding species Ecosystem engineer species

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