Escharoides Coccinea

Overview

Escharoides coccinea is a marine bryozoan that forms distinctive, reddish-orange encrusting colonies. These colonies are composed of numerous individual units known as zooids, which are typically arranged in sub-circular patches on hard surfaces.

Distribution & habitat

This species is found throughout the Northeast Atlantic and the Mediterranean. It commonly colonizes hard substrates in marine environments, often appearing on shells or other stable surfaces in the intertidal and subtidal zones.

Appearance

The colony is characterized by its vibrant red-orange coloration. Each individual zooid is quadrangular in shape with a convex upper surface and is separated from neighboring zooids by a deep groove. The zooids feature a secondary orifice that is often peristomate, and they are typically bordered by long spines. Additionally, the species possesses well-developed, pointed avicularia—specialized structures often used for defense or cleaning—which are located laterally near the orifice and can vary significantly in size.

Biology & behavior

As a colonial organism, Escharoides coccinea functions as a single entity made up of many interconnected zooids. It is a filter feeder, using specialized structures to capture small particles from the water column. The colony grows by adding new zooids at the edges, allowing it to expand across available surfaces.