Bubblegum corals (red) lack any form of fused internal skeleton. A complex of microscopic skeletal structures (sclerites) joined by organic cements provide support to the colony. Fleshy brittle stars are usually found in association with these corals. Sea lilies (yellow) are also common.
Bubblegum Coral
Image courtesy of the NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research, INDEX-SATAL 2010. Download larger version (jpg, 1.2 MB).
Bubblegum corals (red) lack any form of fused internal skeleton. A complex of microscopic skeletal structures (sclerites) joined by organic cements provide support to the colony. Fleshy brittle stars are usually found in association with these corals. Sea lilies (yellow) are also common.
Learn more