Tunicata and Cephalochordata
Ballarin, L.; Burighel, P. (2009). Tunicata and Cephalochordata, in: Minelli, A. et al. Biological science fundamentals and systematics, Volume IV . pp. 43-67 In: Minelli, A.; Contrafatto, G. (Ed.) (2009). Biological science fundamentals and systematics, Volume IV . EOLSS Publications: [s.l.]. ISBN 978-1-84826-639-1. XXIV, 327 pp., more |
| Keywords | | | Author keywords | Protochordata, ascidians, sea-squirts, pyrosomes, salps, doliolids, appendicularians, amphioxus, tunic, endostyle, coloniality, filter-feeding |
| Abstract | Tunicata and Cephalochordata, collectively named Protochordata, are filter-feeding marine animals that, as invertebrate members of the phylum Chordata, share with vertebrates the basic chordate characteristics. Tunicata are found at all latitudes and can assume a planktonic or benthic lifestyle. Coloniality is widespread and a larval stage followed by metamorphosis is the rule in the class Ascidiacea. Blooms of pelagic tunicates are quite common in warm seasons: their ecological relevance relies on the key role played by these animals in the alimentary chain of open seas. Cephalochordata are small, fish-like animals living m sandy bottoms, of interest for
evolutionary studies. |
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