Desmophyllum dianthus

Desmophyllum dianthus is a species of deep-sea coral found in ocean waters worldwide, typically at depths of 200 to 1500 meters. It forms solitary, rounded or cup-shaped skeletons made of calcium carbonate, which are often white or pale in color. Unlike branching corals, D. dianthus grows as individual, upright corals that do not form large colonies. It is important for marine biodiversity, serving as habitat for various small sea creatures. These corals are sensitive to changing ocean conditions, making them indicators of environmental health. They reproduce by releasing eggs and sperm into the water, contributing to species survival and ocean ecosystem stability.