Plexaurella is a genus of gorgonian-type octocorals in the family Plexauridae. Species of the genus are typically characterised by their slit-pores, however, there are some which lack this distinguishing feature (e.g. P. grisea).[2] Sclerite examination is necessary for species identification, which reveals the characteristic 4-rayed 'butterfly' spicules of the cortex and the lack of purple sclerites in the axial sheath.[2]
The World Register of Marine Species lists the following species in the genus:[1]
Plexaurella is a genus of gorgonian-type octocorals in the family Plexauridae. Species of the genus are typically characterised by their slit-pores, however, there are some which lack this distinguishing feature (e.g. P. grisea). Sclerite examination is necessary for species identification, which reveals the characteristic 4-rayed 'butterfly' spicules of the cortex and the lack of purple sclerites in the axial sheath.
