A molecular and morphological exploration of the generic boundaries in the family Melithaeidae (Coelenterata: Octocorallia) and its taxonomic consequences

- Phylogenetic relationships within the Melithaeidae were studied using four loci.
- Molecular results showed that the Melithaeidae, as well as four genera, are paraphyletic.
- Species grouped according to oceanic basins instead of morphological classification.
- The molecular results show the validity of two genera namely Asperaxis and Melithaea.
- The Melithaeidae was stabilised by designating a neotype specimen for Melithaea ochracea.