Coe.43 Renilla Sp.(Sea Pens)

 

Phylum: Cnidaria

Class: Octocorallia

Order: Anthoathecata

Family: Renillidae

Genus: Renilla

Description

            Renilla is a genus of colonial soft corals belonging to the family Renillidae, commonly known as "sea pansies."Renilla soft corals are marine cnidarians that form colonies resembling flattened, flower-like structures. They are typically found in shallow waters in various parts of the world's oceans. These colonial corals are distinct in appearance, with a central stalk or stem and multiple polyps extending from it. The polyps have a petal-like appearance and are often arranged in a radial or symmetrical pattern, resembling the petals of a flower.Renilla colonies are known for their bioluminescence, which means they can emit a soft, greenish-blue light when disturbed or agitated. This light production is a defense mechanism and is sometimes referred to as "underwater fireworks."

IUCN Status: Not evaluated