Bugula neritina

Lophophore of Bugula neritina

Bryostatin 1 ACS

Bugula neritina is a species of bryozoan, belonging to the family Bugulidae. Bryozoans, also known as moss animals, are a phylum of aquatic invertebrate animals. Typically found in marine environments, Bugula neritina is known for its branching, tree-like colonies which adhere to substrates in the shallow waters of oceans around the world.

Description

Bugula neritina colonies are characterized by their dark brown to purple color and their delicate, feathery appearance. Each colony is composed of numerous individual zooids, which are the basic living units of bryozoans. These zooids are housed in protective structures called zoecia, which together form the intricate, branching structures observed in Bugula neritina. The colonies can reach several centimeters in height and are often found attached to submerged surfaces, including rocks, shells, and man-made structures like ship hulls and marina pilings.

Habitat and Distribution

Bugula neritina is a cosmopolitan species, found in temperate and tropical seas worldwide. It thrives in a variety of marine habitats, from estuaries to open coasts, typically in shallow waters but can be found at depths up to several tens of meters. Its widespread distribution is facilitated by its larvae, which are capable of traveling significant distances before settling and forming new colonies.

Ecology

The ecology of Bugula neritina is notable for its role in both marine ecosystems and human activities. As a filter feeder, it contributes to the marine food web by consuming plankton and other small particles from the water column. However, its ability to form dense colonies on man-made structures has led to its classification as a fouling organism, posing challenges for maritime industries by increasing drag on ship hulls and clogging cooling systems.

Bugula neritina is also of scientific interest due to the presence of a compound called bryostatin in its tissues. Bryostatin has been the subject of medical research for its potential use in treating cancer and Alzheimer's disease, among other conditions.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Bugula neritina involves both asexual and sexual methods. Asexually, colonies can grow through the budding of new zooids. Sexually, Bugula neritina produces larvae that are released into the water column, where they disperse before settling on a suitable substrate to form a new colony. This dual mode of reproduction allows for both the rapid expansion of local populations and the dispersal of individuals to new locations.

Conservation

While Bugula neritina is not currently considered a species at risk, its role as an invasive species in certain regions has prompted efforts to manage its spread. Its ability to rapidly colonize and dominate marine surfaces can lead to negative impacts on local biodiversity and marine infrastructure.

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