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The morphology and larval behaviour of a new species of Spirorbis (Serpulidae)

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  11 May 2009

J. M Gee
Affiliation:
Department of Zoology, University College of Swansea
E. W. Knight-Jones
Affiliation:
Department of Zoology, University College of Swansea

Extract

Spirorbis rupestris sp.nov. has a sinistrally coiled, unridged tube and is distinguished from S. borealis Daudin only by colour, small morphological details and striking differences in larval behaviour. Though the larvae are capable of swimming, they do not usually do so, but crawl about and soon attach themselves to rock surfaces near the tubes of their parents, particularly when stimulated by the presence of the coralline alga Lithophyllum incrustans. They will not settle on Fucus serratus.

S. rupestris is found typically on rock surfaces in well-illuminated places throughout the lower half of the shore, generally associated with Lithophyllum. It is abundant on the shores of south-west Britain, except where there is scouring by wave-borne particles.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom 1962

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