Alcyonarian

/ælˌsaɪəˈnɛəriən/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or belonging to the class Alcyonaria, characterized by eight-tentacled polyps and soft bodies.

Etymology

From Alcyonaria (the taxonomic class) plus the adjectival suffix -an, used to describe organisms or characteristics belonging to that classification group.

Kelly Says

If you ever see a sea coral that looks squishy and flexible rather than rock-hard, you're probably looking at an alcyonarian—they're the yoga masters of the coral world!

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