General Description
Colony of individual polyps (hydranths) joined by root-like network of tubular stolons at the base. Colony shape is feather-like (pinnate). Colour: colony deep amber brown, gonothecae cream. Up to 10 cm high.
Biology
This is one of the most spectacular and graceful hydroids in southern Australia. Their colonies grow in spring, and become fertile in late summer.
Distribution
Southern Australia (New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria, Western Australia).
Habitat
Subtidal. Deep water reefs in flowing current.
More Information
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Animal Type
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Animal SubType
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Brief Id
Tall amber-brown plumes.
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Maximum Size
10 cm
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Habitats
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Diet
Plankton or Particles
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Diet Categories
Plankton
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Hazards
Generally not harmful but still able to sting bare skin.
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Endemicity
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Commercial
No
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Conservation Statuses
DSE Advisory List: Not listed, EPBC Act 1999: Not listed, IUCN Red List: Not listed
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Depths
Shallow (1-30 m), Deep ( > 30 m)
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Water Column Locations
On or near seafloor
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Taxon Name
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Scientific Author
(Bale, 1882)
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Common Name
Hydroid
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Phylum
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Class
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Subclass
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Order
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Family
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Genus
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Species Name
ascidioides
