Ofwegenum kloogi sp. nov.

Figs 1, 3D, E, 10E, 12, 13

Material examined.

Holotype. La Réunion • Saint-Paul, Cap la Houssaye; 21.0174°S, 55.2376°E; 17 m depth; 8 April 2008; SMNHTAU_Co_34426.

Paratype. La Réunion • 13 colonies/fragments; same data as holotype; SMNHTAU_ Co _38229 .

Description.

The holotype is an encrusting colony, measuring 28 by 25 mm, attached to a calcareous fragment by a thin spreading base (<1 mm thick). The polypary features several narrow grooves (Fig. 3D). The polyps appear as low mounds. The distal tips of the tentacles occasionally protrude from the top of the polyp mounds.

The coenenchyme sclerites are spindles and rods up to 0.50 mm long, with low, simple tubercles or areas of thickening forming concentric, raised rings (Fig. 12A). The polyp body contains shorter spindles, up to 0.30 mm long (Fig. 12A), which appear to be arranged 'en chevron’ when the polyp is extended. The length of the sclerites decreases along the polyp body towards the base of the tentacles (Fig. 12A).

The tentacles and the pinnules contain numerous platelets and flattened rods (i.e., finger-biscuits) up to 0.07 mm long (Fig. 12B), arranged on the aboral side of the tentacles. Some of these sclerites have lateral median constrictions, side notches, or depressions at one or both ends (Fig. 12B).

Colour.

In life the expanded tentacles are pale grey with an underlying bluish tint. The polyps have a blue mouth opening and blue line along the tentacles (Fig. 10E). The ethanol-preserved holotype is pale grey in colour.

Morphological variations.

Paratype SMNHTAU_Co_38229 has slightly longer tentacle sclerites and shorter coenenchymal sclerites compared to the holotype (Fig. 13).

Remarks.

This species features a distinct encrusting growth form and surface grooves on its polypary, most probably indicating a process of colony fission (Fig. 3D, E). Its tentacle sclerites are mainly ellipsoidal platelets and flattened rods with shallow to no median constrictions (Figs 12B, 13B). The colonies grow in dense patches on the reef (Fig. 10E).

Distribution.

La Réunion .

Etymology.

The species is named after the late Prof. Yoel Kloog, biochemist, former Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, in honour of his friendship and lifetime contributions to science.