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: pale greyish. Up to 5 cm high.
Biology
This is one of the most spectacular and graceful hydroids in southern Australia. They are rarely seen because they often attach to the underside of ledges. Their colonies grow late summer to winter, and become fertile in winter.
Distribution
Southern Australia.
Habitat
Subtidal, on rocky substrates, often under ledges.
More Information
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Animal Type
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Animal SubType
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Brief Id
Small lax greyish colonies usually comprising a few stems.
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Maximum Size
5 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
ilicistomum
