Sea fan

This large pink sea fan belongs to the genus Paragorgia. This specimen is nearly two meters tall and is held in place by a “holdfast” nearly 12 cm in diameter. It holds within its branches a thriving community of brittle stars, crabs, and shrimp - giving it the appearance of a well-decorated Christmas tree. Image courtesy of Exploring Alaska's Seamounts 2002, NOAA/OER.

Related Links

Exploring Alaska's Seamounts

Exploring Alaska's Seamounts: July 15 Log

NOAA Ocean Explorer Gallery