Millepora. Branching colony, 11 cm in height, of the hydrozoan Millepora
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Millepora. Branching colony, 11 cm in height, of the hydrozoan Millepora
Branching colony, 11 cm in height, of the hydrozoan Millepora from the Pleistocene of Aldabra in the Indian Ocean
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Media ID 14237948
© Mary Evans / Natural History Museum
Aldabra Black Background Branching Cenozoic Cnidaria Cnidarian Coelenterata Coelenterate Colony Fossil Fossilised Hydrozoa Hydrozoan Jelly Jelly Fish Jellyfish Medusa Jellyfish Medusozoa Millepora Phanerozoic Pleistocene Prehistoric Prehistory Quaternary Quaternary Epoch Seychelles Specimen Studioshot Anthoathecata Anthomedusa Athecate Hydroid Fire Coral Invertebrata Milleporidae
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this image, a fossilized branching colony of Millepora, a hydrozoan from the Pleistocene epoch, takes center stage against a stark black background. Measuring approximately 11 cm in height, this ancient organism hails from the remote Aldabra Atoll in the Indian Ocean, part of the Seychelles Islands. Belonging to the family Milleporidae and the class Hydrozoa within the phylum Cnidaria, Millepora is commonly known as fire coral due to its bright red or orange polyps that can inflict painful stings. During the Pleistocene period, which falls within the Quaternary epoch of the Phanerozoic Con, Millepora thrived in tropical seas, forming extensive colonies that provided essential habitats for various marine organisms. This particular specimen showcases the branching structure of the colony, reminiscent of a tree-like formation. As anthomedusans, Millepora colonies exhibit both polyp and medusa stages in their life cycle. The polyps, which resemble small anemones, are responsible for the growth and structure of the colony, while the medusa stage, or jellyfish form, is responsible for reproduction. The fossilized nature of this specimen offers a glimpse into the prehistoric world, allowing us to appreciate the intricacies of life that once flourished in our oceans. This studio shot, captured by skilled photographers, highlights the beauty and historical significance of this ancient Millepora colony, inviting us to ponder the rich biosphere that existed during the Cenozoic era.
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