Thomas, M. B.; Edwards, N. C.; Higgins, R. P. (1995). Cryptohydra thieli n. gen., n. sp.: a meiofaunal marine hydroid (Hydroida, Athecata, Capitata). Invertebrate Biology. 114(2): 107-118.

27361

Thomas, M. B.; Edwards, N. C.; Higgins, R. P.

1995

114(2): 107-118

Publication

Meiofaunal hydroids of an undescribed species were found in coarse shell-hash at two sites along the Atlantic coast near Fort Pierce, Florida, USA, between November 1991 and October 1992. Specimens were examined by light microscopy and by scanning and transmission electron microscopy; the behavior was observed and videorecorded. The motile hydroid, up to 1 mm in length, has an extremely long hypostome separating short capitate oral tentacles from longer aboral tentacles, all used in locomotion. A basal disc, similar to that of some actinulae, is used for more permanent attachment. Based on the cnidome (stenoteles, desmonemes, and microbasic mastigophores of two sizes), location and type of tentacles, organization of the endoderm of the tentacle, presence of a supporting lamella, structure of the basal disc, and mode of asexual reproduction, the species is assigned to the family Acaulidae (Athecata, Capitata). Differences from other members of the family, which are all sessile, are considered adaptations to a motile existence, but significant enough to warrant the establishment of a new genus and species, Cryptohydra thieli.Descriptors: CRYPTOHYDRA THIELI new genus new species

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Marine
Marine interstitial
Meiobenthos
Physiology
Systematics, Taxonomy

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