Embryonic survival, larval feeding and larval swimming behaviour of the black coral Antipathella wollastoni

Corals are crucial ecosystem engineers not only in tropical but also in temperate ecosystems. Black corals (order Antipatharia) build coral gardens, which are important, rich communities that are often targeted for conservation and restoration activities. However, major knowledge gaps on their early life stages hinder the success of such efforts. Here we present data on embryo and larval survival, larval feeding and larval swimming behaviour of the species Antipathella wollastoni, a common species in the Macaronesia.