Paramuricea

Paramuricea is a genus of octocorals belonging to the family Plexauridae. These corals are commonly found in deep-sea environments, particularly in the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and Caribbean Sea. They are characterized by their tree-like or fan-like colonies, which can vary in size and branching patterns depending on the species and environmental conditions. The polyps, the individual organisms that make up the colony, are typically small and possess eight tentacles.

The color of Paramuricea species can range from vibrant reds and oranges to purples and whites, often influenced by their diet and the surrounding environment. They are suspension feeders, extending their polyps to capture small planktonic organisms from the water column. Like other corals, Paramuricea plays a role in deep-sea ecosystems, providing habitat and shelter for various marine invertebrates and small fish. Their slow growth rates and sessile nature make them sensitive to disturbances such as trawling and climate change, highlighting their ecological significance and vulnerability.