General Description
Colony of individual polyps (hydranths) joined by root-like network of tubular stolons at the base. Colony shaped like a fan. Colour: stem and branches dark greyish brown, gonothecae (containing reproductive structures) white. Up to 30 cm high.
Biology
Colonies of this species live for several years. They are fertile in winter. They may also occur in New Zealand but this is yet to be confirmed.
Distribution
Southern Australia.
Habitat
Deep reefs in flowing current.
More Information
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Animal Type
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Animal SubType
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Brief Id
Large fan-shaped, dark-coloured bristly colonies.
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Maximum Size
30 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
Spencer, 1891
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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
procumbens