Thalamoporellidae

Thalamoporellidae is a family of bryozoans, a group of aquatic invertebrates that are also known as moss animals. This family is part of the order Cheilostomatida, which is characterized by their calcified exoskeletons.

Taxonomy

The family Thalamoporellidae was first described by the zoologist Neville F. Parnell in 1984. It is classified under the class Gymnolaemata, order Cheilostomatida, and suborder Ascophora.

Characteristics

Members of the Thalamoporellidae family are distinguished by their zooids, which are the individual organisms that make up a bryozoan colony. The zooids of Thalamoporellidae species have a tubular shape and are covered by a calcified exoskeleton. They also have a unique pore structure, with the pores arranged in a pattern that is characteristic of this family.

Distribution and Habitat

Thalamoporellidae species are found in marine environments worldwide. They are particularly common in tropical and subtropical regions, where they often form colonies on hard substrates such as rocks and shells.

Ecology

Like other bryozoans, Thalamoporellidae species are filter feeders. They use their lophophore, a crown of tentacles, to capture small particles of food from the water. These particles are then transported to the mouth by cilia.

Genera

The family Thalamoporellidae includes several genera, including:

• Thalamoporella
• Pseudoflustra
• Porella

External links

• World Register of Marine Species: Thalamoporellidae

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