taxonID	type	description	language	source
FB5F8935FFDAFFA8FF0CFC573B4DD5E6.taxon	materials_examined	Type species Sympodium caeruleum Ehrenberg, 1834: 285 Klunzinger 1877: 42; May 1898: 46 – 51; Wright & Studer 1889: 270 – 271; Cohn 1908: 241 – 242; Kükenthal 1916: 453; Hickson 1931: 174 – 175; Roxas 1933: 106 – 107; Macfadyen 1936: 23; Gohar 1940: 106 – 107; Tixier-Durivault 1966: 371; Reinicke 1997: 22 – 23.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFDAFFA8FF0CFC573B4DD5E6.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis. Colonies encrusting. The encrusting part is a membrane of variable thickness. It can be either mat-like or with ribbon-like extensions; when thicker, it features irregularly shaped low mounds. Polyps monomorphic, commonly retractile, mostly found over the entire surface of the colony, but some parts of the encrusting membrane have very few polyps. Commonly, the polyps arise individually from the membrane or the mounds and can be either spaced or closely set. In the latter case, they can appear as clusters comprising polyps that bud off at different levels to form small branched groups. The sclerites are ellipsoid platelets, abundant throughout the colony. They reach up to ca. 0.03 mm maximal diameter, with each composed of densely packed calcite rods. The tips of the rods are distinct on the surface of the sclerites and commonly provide a granular microstructure. Zooxanthellate.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFDAFFABFF0CF9F73CD0D0F9.taxon	description	Figs. 1, 2, 3 A	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFDAFFABFF0CF9F73CD0D0F9.taxon	materials_examined	Material. Madagascar. Holotype: SMNHTAU _ Co _ 36017, Ankaréa (12 ° 50.054 ’ S, 48 ° 34.563.3 ’ E), 6 – 9 m, 29 November 2012, coll. Y. Benayahu; Paratypes: SMNHTAU _ Co 38226, five colonies, same details as the holotype; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 36015, same details; Tanzania, SMNHTAU _ Co _ 32919, Shundo (4 ° 52 ’ 53 ” S, 39 ° 18 ’ 10 ” E), 0 – 25 m, 10 December 2004, coll. Y. Benayahu; Kenya. SMNHTAU _ Co _ 31143, off Mombasa, Turning Buoy, 10 m, 16 February 2001, coll. Y. Benayahu & S. Perkol-Finkel; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 31153, same details; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 31163, off Mombasa, Simon’s Corner, 20 – 26 m, 20 February 2001, coll. Y. Benayahu & S. Perkol-Finkel; Kenya, SMNHTAU _ Co _ 31173, off Mombasa, Shelly Beach, 10 – 12 m, 20 February 2001, coll. Y. Benayahu & S. Perkol-Finkel; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 31495, off Likoni, Shelly Reef (4 ° 06.4 ’ S, 39 ° 41 ’ S), 19 m, 9 March 2002, coll. Y. Benayahu; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 31512, off Likoni, Wall (4 ° 06.4 ’ S, 39 ° 42 ’ E), 15 – 27 m, 2 February 2002, coll. Y. Benayahu; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 31590, off Likoni, Shelly Reef (4 ° 06.4 ’ S, 39 ° 41 ’ E), 19 m, 9 March 2002, coll. Y. Benayahu.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFDAFFABFF0CF9F73CD0D0F9.taxon	description	Description. The holotype is an encrusting colony attached by a membrane to calcareous fragments, and measures 1.9 x 1.5 cm (Fig. 1 A). Its soft basal membrane is thin, <1 mm thick. Clusters of non-retractile polyps bud off at different levels, occasionally dichotomously, to form small branched groups of polyps (Fig. 1 A). Occasionally, individual polyps arise from the membrane between the clustered polyps. The polyps that are the most expanded are up to 4 mm long and the tentacles are up to 1 mm long. The poor preservation state of the sample prevents a precise pinnule count, but it is estimated to be a single row with up to 10 slender and pointed pinnules on either side of the tentacle. The sclerites of the holotype are ellipsoid platelets, abundant throughout the colony, 0.010 – 0.011 x 0.015 – 0.017 mm in diameter (Fig. 2 A). They are composed of tightly packed calcite rods whose tips provide a uniform granular appearance to the sclerite surface (Fig. 2 B) Color. The ethanol-preserved colony is light cream ..	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFDAFFABFF0CF9F73CD0D0F9.taxon	etymology	Etymology. The species’ name is derived from the Latin ‘ arbuscula’, bush, referring to the clustered arrangement of polyps.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFDAFFABFF0CF9F73CD0D0F9.taxon	description	Variation. The paratype SMNHTAU _ Co _ 38226 comprises four colonies that vary in size: the smallest colony measures 1.0 x 0.5 cm and the largest one 3.5 x 1.5 cm (Fig. 1 B: one of the paratypes). Groups of polyps comprising these paratypes range in number of polyps from 4 to 18, and are up to 20 mm long from the basal membrane to the tip of the uppermost polyp. The paratype SMNHTAU _ Co _ 36015 comprises eight colonies or fragments that resemble the holotype, except in size. The dichotomous arrangement of the polyps is visible (Fig. 1 C, D). Both the dimensions of the paratypes’ sclerites (Fig. 2 C) and their surface microstructure (Fig. 2 D) correspond to those of the holotype (Fig. 2 A, B).	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFDAFFABFF0CF9F73CD0D0F9.taxon	discussion	Remarks. The morphology of the colonies, and in particular the arrangement of the non-retractile polyps in clusters, is considered to be diagnostic of the species. The holotype was sequenced and subsequently assigned to MOTU 38 (McFadden et al. 2019). Living features. The live brownish colonies feature clusters of expanded polyps (Fig. 3 A).	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFDAFFABFF0CF9F73CD0D0F9.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Kenya, Madagascar, Tanzania.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD6FFA6FF0CFF6F3FA4D181.taxon	description	Figs. 3 B – C, 4, 5	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD6FFA6FF0CFF6F3FA4D181.taxon	materials_examined	Material examined. Syntypes: Egypt. ZMB Cni 240 (several colonies), northern Red Sea, Gulf of Suez, Sinai, At-Tur, coll. H. H. R. Hartmeyer. Additional material: Egypt. ZMH C 3245, same details; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 9897, northern Red Sea Gulf of Suez, Abu Durbah (28 ° 28 ’ 25 ” N, 33 ° 19 ’ 51 ” E), 1 October 1972, coll. L. Fishelson; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 9898, same details; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 25585, same details; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 25397, northern Red Sea, southern tip of Sinai Peninsula, 2 – 5 m, 8 November 1981, coll. Y. Benayahu; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 25641, northern Red Sea, southern tip of Sinai Peninsula, Shaab al Utaf (27 ° 45 ’ 23.6 ” N, 34 ° 10 ’ 10.4 ” E), 3 m, 15 August 1987, coll. Y. Benayahu; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 26022, northern Red Sea, southern tip of Sinai, 27 March 1987, coll. Y. Benayahu; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 26024, northern Red Sea, Straits of Tiran, 18 m, 27 March 1988, coll. Y. Benayahu; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 26031, northern Red Sea, Gulf of Suez, Shag Rock (27 ° 47 ’ 00.0 ” N 33 ° 53 ’ 00.0 ” E), 25 m, 7 October 1987, coll. Y. Benayahu; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 26032, northern Red Sea, Gulf of Suez, Shag Rock (27 ° 47 ’ 00.0 ” N 33 ° 53 ’ 00.0 ” E), 8 October 1987, coll. Y. Benayahu; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 26033, northern Red Sea, southern tip of Sinai Peninsula, Shaab al Utaf (27 ° 45 ’ 23.6 ” N, 34 ° 10 ’ 10.4 ” E), 10 m, 5 October 1988, Coll. Y. Benayahu; Israel. SMNHTAU _ Co _ 7953, northern Red Sea, Gulf of Aqaba, Eilat, 1 June 1971, coll. L. Fishelson; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 34184, northern Red Sea, Gulf of Aqaba, Eilat, Princess Coral Reef (29 ° 29.77 ’ N, 34 ° 54.53 ’ E), 22.9 – 24.4 m, 26 July 2007, coll. Y. Benayahu; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 34185, same details; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 34919, northern Red Sea, Gulf of Aqaba, Eilat, Oil Jetty (29.52993 ° N, 34.93535 ° E), 13 m, 30 November 2008, coll. D. Aharonovich; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 35020; northern Red Sea, Gulf of Aqaba, Eilat, the reef across the Interuniversity Institute for Marine Sciences, Israel (29 ° 30 ′ N, 034 ° 55 ′ E), 10 – 12 m, 19 February 2008, coll. D. Aharonovich; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 35028, northern Red Sea, Gulf of Aqaba, Eilat, Oil Jetty (29.52993 ° N, 34.93535 ° E), 13 May 2008, 12 m, coll. D. Aharonovich; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 35030 same details; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 35032 same details; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 35044, northern Red Sea, Gulf of Aqaba, Eilat, Coral Beach Nature Reserve (29.50993 ° N, 34.92.39 ° E), 20 m, 18 January, 2011, coll. A. Halász; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 37045, northern Red Sea, Gulf of Aqaba, Eilat, Oil Jetty (29.52993 ° N, 34.93535 ° E), 10 m, 9 November 2011, coll. A. Halász; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 37046, northern Red Sea, Gulf of Aqaba, Eilat, Oil Jetty (29.52993 ° N, 34.93535 ° E), 15 m, 9 November 2011, coll. A. Halász; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 37047, northern Red Sea, Gulf of Aqaba, Eilat, Princess Coral Reef, (29 ° 29.77 ’ N, 34 ° 54.53 ’ E), 25 m, 8 November 2011, coll. A. Halász; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 37048, northern Red Sea, Gulf of Aqaba, Eilat, Oil Jetty (29.52993 ° N, 34.93535 ° E), 10 m, 9 November 2011, coll. A. Halász; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 37688, Northern Red Sea, Gulf of Aqaba, Eilat, Princess Coral Reef (29 ° 29.77 ’ N, 34 ° 54.53 ’ E), 5 m, 20 March 2018, coll. R. Liberman. Saudi Arabia. USNM 1201982, Al Lith, Marmar Reef (19 o 50 ’ N, 39 o 56 ’ E), 5 m, April 2011, coll. R. Haverkort-Yeh; USNM 1201969, Dora Reef (19 o 49 ’ N, 39 o 53 ’ E), 6 m, April 2011, coll. R. Haverkort-Yeh; UF 9544, Yanbu, Shi’b Sufflami (23.543467 ° N, 38.22791 ° 7 E), 4 March 2014, coll. G. Paulay; UF 14223, Jeddah (21.7127 ° N, 39.0803 ° E), 24.4 m, 26 October 2018, coll. C. McFadden.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD6FFA6FF0CFF6F3FA4D181.taxon	description	Description. The syntypes, ZMB Cni 240, consist of several small encrusting membrane-like colonies firmly attached to an irregular calcareous fragment measuring approximately 10 x 6 cm (Fig. 4 A). The largest colony is 2.5 x 2 cm and the others are smaller, approximately 1 cm 2. Certain parts of the colonies are extended into small crevices of the fragment. The membrane overgrowing the substrate is 1 – 1.5 mm thick. Some of the polyps are fully retracted while others are partly expanded (Fig. 4 B). The polyp body is up to 10 mm long and the tentacles up to 5 mm long. The pinnules are arranged in 3 rows, with 5 – 8 pinnules in the outermost row. They are short, approximately 1 mm long and 0.5 mm wide, with almost no space between adjacent ones. The sclerites of the syntypes are ellipsoid platelets, highly abundant throughout the colony, measuring 0.010 – 0.012 x 0.014 – 0.017 mm in diameter (Fig. 5 A). They are composed of calcite rods, uniform in diameter of ca. 0.001 mm; the tips of the rods are perpendicular to the surface of the sclerite, giving it a granular appearance (Fig. 5 B). Color. The ethanol-preserved syntypes are gray. Variation. The morphological features of the sequenced colony (SMNHTAU _ Co _ 34185) resemble those of the syntypes, and it similarly grows over a calcareous fragment by means of a thin spreading membrane. The pinnules are arranged in 2 – 3 rows, with 6 – 7 pinnules in the outermost one. Some pinnules are retracted, however the few expanded ones are up to 1 mm in length. Similarly, other Red Sea colonies that were sequenced (USNM 1201982 and USNM 1201969) resemble the syntypes, except in size. Color. All the ethanol-preserved samples are gray.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD6FFA6FF0CFF6F3FA4D181.taxon	discussion	Remarks. The morphology of all the additional S. caeruleum colonies collected from the Red Sea (Israel, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia) corresponds to the syntypes, but they may differ in size and in the density of the polyps emerging from the spreading membrane. All of the sequenced colonies (SMNHTAU _ Co _ 34185, USNM 1201982, USNM 1201969, UF 9544 and UF 14223) were assigned to MOTU 21 (McFadden et al. 2019). Based on the current findings, it is suggested that this species is the only representative of the genus present in the Red Sea. Living features. The live colonies feature a membrane-like morphology with expanded polyps, whose color presents a bluish or light greyish-white tinge (Figs. 3 B – C).	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD6FFA6FF0CFF6F3FA4D181.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Red Sea.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD4FFA7FF0CFE073F9AD7E6.taxon	description	Figs. 6, 7	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD4FFA7FF0CFE073F9AD7E6.taxon	materials_examined	Material. Madagascar. Syntypes: SMNHTAU _ Co _ 36010, Ankaréa (12 ° 50.054 ’ S, 48 ° 34.563.3 ’ E), 24 – 26 m, 29 November 2012, coll. Y. Benayahu; Paratypes: SMNHTAU _ Co _ 35977, Riva Be (12 ° 59.126 ’ S, 48 ° 34.453 ’ E), 8 – 10 m, 27 November 2012, coll. Y. Benayahu; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 36062, 4 Fréres (12 ° 59.655 ’ S, 48 ° 29.248 ’ E), 4 – 15 m, 1 December 2012, Coll. Y. Benayahu.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD4FFA7FF0CFE073F9AD7E6.taxon	description	Description. The syntypes comprise several small encrusting colonies up to only 5 x 5 mm. They are densely growing on thin branched algal material which easily fragments (Fig. 6 A). Some of the colonies are connected by their thin spreading membrane, and therefore it is not practical to separate a single colony as a holotype. The small size of the syntypes is also reflected by the fact that each comprises only 4 – 12 polyps (Fig. 6 B). The polyps are expanded and their body measures up to 2.5 mm. The tentacles are approximately 1 mm long and feature one row of 7 – 9 pinnules on either side. The pinnules are slender and pointed, up to 0.25 mm long. The sclerites of the syntypes are ellipsoid platelets, highly abundant throughout the colony, measuring 0.011 – 0.012 x 0.015 – 0.017 mm in diameter (Fig. 7 A). They are composed of calcite rods whose tips mostly provide a granular appearance to the sclerite surface (Fig. 7 B). Color. The ethanol-preserved colonies are cream.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD4FFA7FF0CFE073F9AD7E6.taxon	etymology	Etymology. The species’ name is derived from the ancient Greek “ epiphúton ”, one [plant] that grows upon another plant (epí, “ on top of ”) + (phutón, “ plant ”), via epi- (“ above, over ”) + - phyte (“ plant ”). It denotes the nature of the colonies found growing on algal material.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD4FFA7FF0CFE073F9AD7E6.taxon	description	Variation. The paratypes SMNHTAU _ Co _ 35977 (not shown) and SMNHTAU _ Co _ 36062 (Fig. 6 C) are similarly attached to algal fragments. Some of the colonies are larger than those of the syntypes, up to 8 x 8 mm (Fig. 6 D). Their sclerites are similar to those of paratype SMNHTAU _ Co _ 36062 (Fig. 7 C), with a surface that features calcite rods (Fig. 7 D) that are more densely packed than those of the holotype (Fig. 7 B).	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD4FFA7FF0CFE073F9AD7E6.taxon	discussion	Remarks. The epiphytic nature of the colonies is suggested to be diagnostic for this species The syntypes and a paratype were sequenced and subsequently assigned to MOTU 37 (McFadden et al. 2019).	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD4FFA7FF0CFE073F9AD7E6.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Madagascar.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD2FFA1FF0CFF6E3F9AD757.taxon	description	Figs. 3 D, E, 8, 9	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD2FFA1FF0CFF6E3F9AD757.taxon	materials_examined	Material. Madagascar. Holotype: SMNHTAU _ Co _ 36121, Nose Be (13 ° 29.032 ’ S, 47 ° 58.721 ’ E), 2 – 14 m, 3 December 2012, coll. Y. Benayahu. Paratypes; SMNHTAU _ Co _ 38227, ten fragments, same details as the holotype, SMNHTAU _ Co _ 36032, Ankaréa (12 ° 49.978 ’ S, 48 ° 34.504 ’ E), 26 – 28 m, 30 November 2012, coll. Y. Benayahu.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD2FFA1FF0CFF6E3F9AD757.taxon	description	Description. Encrusting colony with densely packed knob-like mounds (Fig. 8 A). The holotype measures 3.2 x 1.5 cm, the mounds are 8 – 10 mm high and the spreading membrane in between is about 1 mm thick. The polyps are uniformly spaced throughout the surface of the colony; those of the upper part of the mounds are fully retracted, leaving distinct round pits of about 1 mm in diameter (Fig. 8 A). The polyps of the periphery of the lobes are partly expanded, up to 1.2 mm long, with tentacles up to 0.5 mm long. Most of the pinnules are retracted, but there appears to be a single row of 3 – 5 pinnules on either side of the tentacle. The sclerites of the holotype are ellipsoid platelets, abundant throughout the colony, and measure 0.014 – 0.016 x 0.016 – 0.019 mm in diameter (Fig. 9 A). They are composed of packed calcite rods whose tips appear to bend over at the surface (Fig. 9 B). Color. The ethanol-preserved colony is light cream.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD2FFA1FF0CFF6E3F9AD757.taxon	etymology	Etymology. The species’ name, gibbaeum, is derived from the Latin “ gibbosus ” meaning hunchback, referring to the mounds of the colony.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD2FFA1FF0CFF6E3F9AD757.taxon	description	Variation. The paratype SMNHTAU _ Co _ 38227 (Fig. 8 B) resembles the holotype, but is smaller. The paratype SMNHTAU _ Co _ 36032 (Fig. 8 C) comprises a delicate membranous colony featuring several low mounds. The spreading membrane is 1 – 2 mm thick with some individual polyps set apart, leaving 4 – 10 mm gaps with no polyps but the few low mounds do bear polyps (Fig. 8 D). The sclerites of the paratype SMNHTAU _ Co _ 38227 (Fig. 9 C) resemble those of the holotype, but their outline can be more angular and their surface microstructure presents an oblique-to-parallel orientation of the calcite rods (Fig. 9 B).	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD2FFA1FF0CFF6E3F9AD757.taxon	discussion	Remarks. The morphology of the colonies, featuring mounds, mostly with a round outline, is considered diagnostic for the species. The morphological differences between the holotype (Fig. 9 A) and the paratypes (Fig. 9 B – D) are suggested to represent intraspecific variation. The ethanol-preserved holotype (SMNHTAU _ Co _ 36121) and a paratype (SMNHTAU _ Co _ 36032) were sequenced and subsequently assigned to MOTU 46 (McFadden et al. 2019). Living features. The live colonies feature distinct mounds with expanded polyps, also presenting some color variation such as green-beige or gray (Fig. 3 D, E).	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD2FFA1FF0CFF6E3F9AD757.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Madagascar.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD0FFA2FF0CFF6E3C41D79A.taxon	description	Figs. 3 F, 10, 11.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD0FFA2FF0CFF6E3C41D79A.taxon	materials_examined	Material. Australia. Holotype: QM G 330076, Ningaloo Reef, inside Norwegian Bommies, Western Australia, Australia (22 ° 37 ’ 17.6 ” S, 113 ° 38 ’ 32.6 ” E), Lagoon (Patch Reef), 5 – 6 m, 19 May 2009, coll. M. Ekins & M. Bryce; Paratypes: QM G 339750, four fragments same details as the holotype. WAM Z 29359, same details as the holotype.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD0FFA2FF0CFF6E3C41D79A.taxon	description	Description. The holotype measures 25 x 33 mm (Fig. 10 A), and features mounds covered with densely packed polyps. The spreading membrane is about 1 mm thick and the mounds are about 10 mm high. Only a few polyps are significantly expanded while the majority are in various states of retraction. The expanded polyps are up to 1.5 mm long and their tentacles are approximately 0.5 mm long with a single row of 7 – 8 pinnules on either side of the tentacle. The sclerites of the holotype are ellipsoid platelets, mostly hexagonal in shape. They are opalescent and abundant throughout the colony, measuring 0.010 – 0.028 x 0.008 – 0.023 mm in diameter (Fig. 11 A). The sclerites are composed of calcite rods whose tips provide a uniform granular appearance to the sclerite surface. They are arranged in dense patches with some space in between (Fig. 11 B). Color. The ethanol-preserved holotype is cream.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD0FFA2FF0CFF6E3C41D79A.taxon	etymology	Etymology. The species’ name, hexagonotus in Greek, means a six-sided polygon, referring to the unique shape of the sclerites.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD0FFA2FF0CFF6E3C41D79A.taxon	discussion	Remarks. The paratypes resemble the holotype except for their size. The morphology of the colonies is characterized by both mounds and the hexagonal sclerites whose diameter is the largest recorded to date among the congeners (0.028 mm). The ethanol-preserved holotype (QM G 330076) was sequenced and subsequently assigned to MOTU 44 (McFadden et al. 2019). Living features. The live colonies feature distinct mounds and are bluish / cream in color (Fig. 3 F)	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD0FFA2FF0CFF6E3C41D79A.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Western Australia	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD1FFBCFF0CFCED3C44D63D.taxon	description	Figs. 12, 13, 14 A	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD1FFBCFF0CFCED3C44D63D.taxon	materials_examined	Material. Japan. Syntypes: SMNHTAU _ Co _ 38204, Nagasaki, Danjo Islands, south of Arasesaki, Ojima, NW side (32.051168 ° N, 128.391857 ° E), 23 September 2018, 10 – 20 m, coll. C. McFadden; Paratypes: SMNHTAU _ Co _ 38092 Nagasaki, Danjo Islands, Ojima, SE side (32.038886 ° N, 128.387278 ° E), 22 September 2018, 10 – 20 m, coll. C. McFadden (molecular sample only); SMNHTAU _ Co _ 38103 Nagasaki, Danjo Islands, rocks west of Yorijima (32.024824 ° N, 128.364289 ° E), 23 September 2018, 10 – 20 m, coll. C. McFadden (molecular sample only); SMNHTAU _ Co _ 38104, same details.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD1FFBCFF0CFCED3C44D63D.taxon	description	Description. The syntypes comprise several irregular encrusting colonies with a delicate thin spreading membrane (<0.5 mm) attached to a bivalve shell (Fig. 12 A). The largest colony has a surface area of ca. 15 mm 2. In addition, there are a few small colonies measuring 3 – 5 mm 2. It was not possible to separate a single colony as a holotype without compromising its integrity and therefore syntypes were assigned. The polyps emerge from the membrane 1 – 5 mm apart and exhibit various degrees of retraction (Fig. 12 B). The few expanded polyps are up to 1.5 mm long and their tentacles are approximately 0.5 mm long. The pinnules are either totally or partially contracted, with a single row of 3 – 5 pinnules on either side of the tentacle. The sclerites of the syntypes are ellipsoid platelets, abundant throughout the colony and measuring 0.010 – 0.012 x 0.013 – 0.015 mm in diameter (Fig. 13 A). They are composed of densely packed calcite rods whose tips provide a uniform granular appearance to the sclerite surface (Fig. 13 B). Color. The ethanol-preserved syntypes are light gray, almost white.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD1FFBCFF0CFCED3C44D63D.taxon	etymology	Etymology. The species’ name, subtilis from the Latin meaning delicate, refers to the delicate encrusting membrane of the species.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD1FFBCFF0CFCED3C44D63D.taxon	description	Variation. The paratype SMNHTAU _ Co _ 38104 is a small colony measuring only a few mm in size, but otherwise resembles the holotype. Living features. The live colonies feature polyps arranged in groups (Fig. 14 A).	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD1FFBCFF0CFCED3C44D63D.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Japan.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFD1FFBCFF0CFCED3C44D63D.taxon	discussion	Remarks. The colonies are characterized by a remarkably thin and delicate spreading membrane which is suggested to be diagnostic for this species. The ethanol-preserved syntypes and paratypes were sequenced and subsequently assigned to MOTU 68.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFCEFFBDFF0CF99B3C05D794.taxon	description	Figs. 14 B – C, 15, 16	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFCEFFBDFF0CF99B3C05D794.taxon	materials_examined	Material. Taiwan. Holotype: SMNHTAU _ Co _ 35751, Green Island, IronArtificial Reef (22 ° 38 ’ 33 ” N, 121 ° 28 ’ 31 ” E), 20 – 26 m, 9 September 2012, coll. Y. Benayahu; Paratype: SMNHTAU _ Co _ 37888, Green Island, Lighthouse End (22 ° 40 ’ 32.04 ” N, 121 ° 27 ’ 44.58 ” E), 20 – 26 m, October 2019, coll. Y. Benayahu.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFCEFFBDFF0CF99B3C05D794.taxon	description	Description. The syntypes comprise 25 – 30 small encrusting colonies attached to a fluffy sponge fragment (Fig. 15 A). Each features up to 15 polyps and measures approximately 2 x 4 mm. There are also a few individual polyps on the sponge surface (Fig. 15 B). Some colonies reveal a round outline (Fig. 15 B) while in others their thin spreading membrane (<0.5 mm) forms an elongate, ribbon-like extension, bearing polyps. All of the colonies in the aggregation are designated as syntypes because it is not possible to separate a single colony as a holotype without compromising its integrity. The majority of the polyps are variously retracted. The few fully expanded polyps are up to 1.5 mm long and their tentacles are approximately 0.5 mm long. There is a single row of 3 – 4 pinnules on either side of the tentacles, which are almost fully retracted. The sclerites of the syntypes are ellipsoid platelets, measuring 0.009 – 0.010 x 0.012 – 0.015 mm in diameter (Fig. 16 A). They are composed of calcite rods whose tips provide a uniform granular appearance to the sclerite surface (Fig. 16 B). Color. The ethanol-preserved syntypes are light cream.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFCEFFBDFF0CF99B3C05D794.taxon	etymology	Etymology. The species’ name, vegrandis in Latin, meaning small, diminutive, refers to the size of the colonies.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFCEFFBDFF0CF99B3C05D794.taxon	description	Variation. The paratype resembles the syntypes.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFCEFFBDFF0CF99B3C05D794.taxon	discussion	Remarks. The colonies are characterized by their minute size and sclerites whose diameter is the smallest recorded to date among the congeners. The syntypes uniquely exhibit single (not clustered) polyps that are probably juvenile recruits. The ethanol-preserved syntypes and paratype were sequenced and subsequently assigned to MOTU 54 (McFadden et al. 2019). Living features. The aggregated live colonies exhibit a distinct bluish / green color (Fig. 14 B, C)	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFCEFFBDFF0CF99B3C05D794.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Taiwan (Green Island).	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFCCFFB8FF0CF9E83A07D6B9.taxon	description	Fig. 14 D, Fig. 17, Fig. 18	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFCCFFB8FF0CF9E83A07D6B9.taxon	materials_examined	Material. Japan. Holotype. SMNHTAU _ Co _ 35117, Ryukyu Archipelago, Yonaguni Is., Umabanazaki Point, 8 – 12 m, 3 July, 2010, Coll. Y. Benayahu; Paratypes. SMNHTAU _ Co _ 38228, same details, 11 fragments, SMNHTAU _ Co _ 35164 Ryukyu Archipelago, Yonaguni Is., West Point, 16 – 22 m, 5 July, 2010, 6 fragments, Coll. Y. Benayahu; Taiwan. SMNHTAU _ Co _ 35754 Green Is. Iron Artificial Reef (22 ° 38 ’ 33 ” N, 121 ° 28 ’ 31 ” E), 20 – 26 m, 5 September 2012.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFCCFFB8FF0CF9E83A07D6B9.taxon	description	Description. The holotype is an encrusting and soft colony with irregular upper surface, measuring 5 x 32 mm and up to 3 mm thick (Fig. 17 A). Some polyps emerge individually and others in small groups of 3 – 5, forming low mounds up to 2 – 4 mm in diameter. Almost all the polyps are retracted and the few that are either partly or mostly expanded measure up to 2 mm, with tentacles up to 1 mm long. Most of the pinnules are retracted and only the few partly retracted ones can be seen under the dissecting microscope. The sclerites of the holotype are ellipsoid platelets, abundant throughout the colony, measuring 0.012 – 0.016 x 0.010 – 0.012 mm in diameter (Fig. 18 A). They are composed of densely packed calcite rods whose tips provide a granular appearance to the sclerite surface (Fig. 18 B). Color. The ethanol-preserved colony is light cream. Living features. The live colonies present clusters of brown-gray expanded polyps over the reef substrate (Fig. 14 D).	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFCCFFB8FF0CF9E83A07D6B9.taxon	etymology	Etymology. The species is named after Yonaguni Island, the type locality of the species.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFCCFFB8FF0CF9E83A07D6B9.taxon	description	Variation. The paratypes SMNHTAU _ Co _ 38228 (Fig, 17 B), SMNHTAU _ Co _ 35164 and SMNHTAU _ Co _ 35754 (Figs. 17 C, D), are smaller than the holotype, but otherwise resemble the holotype.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFCCFFB8FF0CF9E83A07D6B9.taxon	discussion	Remarks. The morphological features of the colony, specifically the relatively thick encrusting membrane and the polyps emerging in groups from low mounds, are considered to be diagnostic for this species. The ethanol-preserved holotype and paratypes (SMNHTAU _ Co _ 35164, SMNHTAU _ Co _ 35754) were sequenced and subsequently assigned to MOTU 36 (McFadden et al. 2019).	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
FB5F8935FFCCFFB8FF0CF9E83A07D6B9.taxon	distribution	Distribution. Japan: Ryukyu Archipelago, Yonaguni Island; Taiwan: Green Island.	en	Benayahu, Yehuda, Ekins, Merrick, Mcfadden, Catherine S. (2021): Overview of the genus Sympodium Ehrenberg, 1834 (Octocorallia, Alcyonacea, Xeniidae), with the description of new species, revealing regional endemism. Zootaxa 5072 (4): 324-350, DOI: https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5072.4.2
