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Family: Convolutidae
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Bocas Species Database Habitat: Subtidal brown algae and present on plankton. Distribution: Specimens encountered in Isla Bastimentos and Almirante Bay, in the region of Bocas del Toro, Panama. Natural History Notes: The species Heterochaerus sargassi has been first described by Hyman in 1939. However, in 1950, Marcus contributed to increase the knowledge on this species by describing individuals that possessed developed reproductive organs, whereas Hyman had concluded previously that this species in fact lacked reproductive organs. Characteristics: The specimens encountered were immature and measured around 640 µm in length and 300 µm wide. Presence of gold-colored endosymbiotic zooxanthellae. Absence of statocyst. Two red eyespots are present at the anterior end of the animal. Concentration of black concrements (in transmitted light) at the anterior tip. |
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