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Glite Dictionary
Alcyonaria

Alcyonaria

9.9
A group of soft sea animals like corals that have tentacles with eight branches
  • noun
  • /ælˈsaɪəˌnɛəriə/
  • Archaic
translation icon : alcionaria
  • The unique eight-branched tentacles are a defining feature of Alcyonaria species.

Examples

  • Many members of Alcyonaria contribute to the structure of tropical and subtropical reefs.

  • Scientists study Alcyonaria to better understand coral reef ecosystems and their biodiversity.

  • Many members of Alcyonaria contribute to the structure of tropical and subtropical reefs.

  • Scientists study Alcyonaria to better understand coral reef ecosystems and their biodiversity.

  • The unique eight-branched tentacles are a defining feature of Alcyonaria species.

  • Look at the Alcyonaria!

  • The Alcyonaria are fascinating creatures found in warm ocean waters.

Synonyms

order Alcyonaria
vsAlcyonaria
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of soft corals and sea anemones with tentacles that branch into eight parts and eight internal walls

is presented as a former order rather than a current classification
Alcyonacea
vsAlcyonaria
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of soft corals with flexible, fleshy bodies that do not build hard skeletons and live in warm seas

highlights eight-branched tentacle feature rather than skeleton absence

Compounds

order Alcyonaria
  • Specialized
9.9

A group of soft corals and sea anemones with tentacles that branch into eight parts and eight internal walls

Surface Forms

Alcyonaria singular
Alcyonarias plural

Etymology

Alcyonaria comes from the Greek root alkyón, meaning 'kingfisher'. In Greek myth the kingfisher brought calm seas, called 'halcyon days', and early scientists used this name for soft corals that live in warm, calm waters. So, think of Alcyonaria as 'kingfisher' corals of the sea, which helps you remember they are marine soft corals with many tentacles.