What is another word for alcyonaria?
Pronunciation: [ˌalsɪənˈe͡əɹi͡ə] (IPA) 
Alcyonaria is a term used to refer to a group of marine animals that includes sea pens, soft corals, and gorgonians. Synonyms for alcyonaria include octocorals, octocorallia, and eight-rayed corals. These organisms differ from hard corals in that they lack a calcareous skeleton, and they rely on polyps to create a structure that provides shelter and food. Octocorals are often brightly colored and come in many different shapes and sizes. They are found in waters around the world, from shallow reefs to deep-sea habitats. Although alcyonaria are important components of marine ecosystems, many species are threatened by habitat destruction and overfishing.
