Palythoa [Palythoa]

Description

Palythoa is a genus of zoanthids that are known for forming large, encrusting mats on the substrate of reef environments. These marine invertebrates are characterized by their robust, button-like polyps embedded in a thick, fleshy matrix known as coenenchyme. Palythoa species are found in a variety of marine habitats, from shallow to deeper waters, and are distributed worldwide. They rely on a combination of photosynthesis, performed by their endosymbiotic zooxanthellae, and heterotrophy, capturing small particles and plankton with their tentacles. Palythoa is also known for containing palytoxin, one of the most potent marine toxins, which is a subject of interest for biochemical and medical research.