General Description
Colony of individual polyps (hydranths) joined by root-like network of tubular stolons at the base. Colony shape is tree-like or bushy (arborescent). Colour: colony silvery white. Up to 20 cm high.
Biology
This is one of the most spectacular and graceful hydroids in southern Australia. They occur in late winter to early summer, and are fertile in winter.
Distribution
Southern Australia: New South Wales and Victoria.
Habitat
Subtidal, in rocky reef habitats in areas of flowing current.
More Information
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Animal Type
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Animal SubType
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Brief Id
Large silvery-white plumose colonies.
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Maximum Size
20 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, 1888)
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Common Name
Hydroid
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Other Names
Feather Coral
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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
whiteleggei
