Interspecific relationships: diversity, anchoring methods and feeding habits associated to the tubes of Ceriantharia species (Cnidaria; Anthozoa)

Author(s)

Hellen Ceriello

• Document type: Master's Dissertation
• Press: Assis. 2018-06-18.
• Institution: Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp). Faculdade de Ciências e Letras. Assis
• Defense date: 2018-06-04
• Advisor: Sérgio Nascimento Stampar

Abstract

The phylum Cnidaria is characterized by animals that carry stinging cells named cnidocytes in their tissues. Due to the release of toxic substances, cnidarians have few associations with other species, however mostly known associations are often described as mandatory or optional commensalism. One of the groups in this phylum, Ceriantharia, is represented by members generally known as ceriantharians or tube-dwelling anemones whose most remarkable feature is the presence of a peculiar cell secretion (ptychocyst) that supports the construction of a tube, synthetized by the animal itself, and inserted into the substrate, lodging the animal. Although there are some studies concerning the history, taxonomy and systematic position, molecular and morphological analyzes and life-cycle, studies regarding interspecific associations occurring with ceriantharian tubes are scarce. Thus, little is known about these associations as well as the methods that the species use in order to anchor on these tubes. Thereby, this study listed species occurring in ceriantharian tubes mainly discussing the anchoring methods and feeding habits involved in the associations observed. The tubes of 8 Ceriantharia species were analyzed, yielding data about interactions with Annelida, Crustacea and Mollusca to the tubes. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 16/00689-7 - Interspecific relationships: diversity, anchoring methods and feeding habits associated to the tubes of Ceriantharias species (Cnidaria Anthozoa)
• Grantee: Hellen Ceriello
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master