Cycliophora

Cycliophora

Cycliophora is a phylum of microscopic marine animals that are known for their unique life cycle and symbiotic relationship with lobsters. These organisms were first discovered in 1995 and have since intrigued scientists due to their complex reproductive strategies and distinct morphology.

Description

Cycliophorans are tiny, sessile organisms that live on the mouthparts of lobsters. They are characterized by their sac-like bodies and ciliated feeding structures. The most well-known species within this phylum is *Symbion pandora*, which was the first species to be described.

Morphology

Cycliophorans have a simple body plan that includes a ciliated feeding apparatus called a "buccal funnel," which they use to capture food particles from the water. The body is divided into a trunk and an adhesive disc that attaches to the host lobster. They lack a digestive system, and instead, nutrients are absorbed directly through their body surface.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of cycliophorans is complex and involves both asexual and sexual reproduction. During the asexual phase, the organism reproduces by budding, producing clones of itself. In the sexual phase, a dwarf male is produced, which fertilizes a female. The fertilized egg develops into a larva that eventually settles on a new host.

Habitat

Cycliophorans are exclusively found on the mouthparts of lobsters, particularly the Norway lobster (*Nephrops norvegicus*) and the American lobster (*Homarus americanus*). They are distributed in the North Atlantic Ocean, where these lobsters are commonly found.

Discovery and Classification

Cycliophora was first described by Reinhardt Kristensen and Peter Funch in 1995. The discovery of this phylum was significant because it represented a new branch of the animal kingdom. Cycliophora is closely related to the phyla Entoprocta and Ectoprocta, with which it shares some morphological features.

Research and Significance

The study of cycliophorans provides insights into the evolution of symbiotic relationships and the diversity of life cycles in marine organisms. Their unique reproductive strategies and morphological adaptations make them a subject of interest in evolutionary biology and marine ecology.

Also see

• Symbion pandora
• Lobster
• Marine symbiosis
• Entoprocta
• Ectoprocta

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