Member of an underwater colony NYT

The crossword clue "Member of an underwater colony" with the answer "CORAL" refers to a marine organism that forms colonies composed of numerous individual polyps. Corals secrete a calcium carbonate skeleton, which builds up over time to create coral reefs. These reefs are essential underwater structures that support a diverse range of marine life.

The crossword clue "Member of an underwater colony" with the answer "SEA URCHIN" refers to a spiny, globular marine animal found on the ocean floor. Sea urchins often inhabit reefs and can form dense aggregations, particularly around kelp forests and rocky outcrops. They play a crucial role in their ecosystem by grazing on algae and contributing to the balance of marine environments.

The crossword clue "Member of an underwater colony" with the answer "ANEMONE" refers to a predatory marine animal that often forms symbiotic relationships with clownfish and other organisms. Sea anemones have a sessile (non-moving) lifestyle, attaching themselves to substrates like rocks or coral reefs. Their tentacles capture prey and provide a habitat for various marine species.

The crossword clue "Member of an underwater colony" with the answer "SPONGE" refers to a simple marine organism that filters water to obtain food. Sponges attach to surfaces on the ocean floor and have a porous structure that allows them to filter nutrients from the surrounding water. They can form large colonies and play a vital role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems.