Diversity of Sipuncula associated with Subtropical Brazilian Rhodolith beds

• Grant number: 25/14179-0
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Visiting Researcher Grant - International
• Start date: June 01, 2026
• End date: July 10, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Ecology
• Principal Investigator: Guilherme Henrique Pereira Filho
• Grantee: Guilherme Henrique Pereira Filho
• Visiting researcher: Anja Schulze
• Visiting researcher institution: Texas A&M University , United States
• Host Institution: Instituto do Mar (IMar). Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Campus Baixada Santista. Santos , SP, Brazil
• City of the host institution: Santos

Abstract

Among other invertebrate groups, Sipuncula has attracted attention both for its abundance and its association with rhodolith beds, especially on more coastal sites (e.g., Ilha das Couves). Currently, we have approximately 300 Sipuncula individuals sorted and preserved in 100% alcohol, for which we aim to refine their identification as well as try to understand the ecological importance of this group, particularly when associated with rhodoliths. One of the main challenges to advancing this knowledge is the scarcity of specialists in the group. Few research groups worldwide are currently equipped to recognize the diversity of Sipuncula occurring in different marine environments. Sipuncula constitute a unique taxon of marine worms, characterized by an unsegmented body and a retractable introvert with an array of tentacles surrounding the mouth at its tip. Taxonomic characters for species identification require careful fixation and often dissection. In this context, this proposal for a visit by Dr. Anja Schulze (Texas A&M University), planned within this project, aims to contribute to the understanding of Sipuncula associated with rhodolith beds but also to train students and researchers to understand the diversity of this group and thus formulate hypotheses that can help elucidate its importance in rhodolith beds. (AU)