Genus Metallogorgia Versluys, 1902

Diagnosis

(based on Versluys 1902; Nutting 1908; Kükenthal 1919). Main stem monopodial with a few branches occurring on the side. Axis round and solid with a smooth surface and strong metallic luster. Branches irregular, subdivided dichotomously with branchlets forming a sympodium. The coenenchyme usually thin with a few sclerites or not well differentiated this layer.

Type species.

Metallogorgia melanotrichos (Wright & Studer, 1889)

Distribution.

Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean and Indian Ocean, in a depth range of 567-2311 m (Watling et al. 2011, and the present study).