The Plumed Hydroid, Little Seabristle,Glassy Plume Hydroid, scientifically known as Plumularia setacea, is a delicate and visually striking marine hydroid, a member of the animal kingdom. This species showcases a captivating blend of intricate structures and a fascinating life cycle, making it a captivating subject in marine biology.
Description & Characteristics
Plumularia setacea exhibits a characteristic feathery appearance due to its branching structure, earning it the common name “Plumed Hydroid.” Its body is composed of a central stalk known as a hydrorhiza, from which numerous branches, called polyps, extend. These polyps are responsible for feeding and reproduction. The size of Plumularia setacea can vary depending on environmental factors but generally reaches a maximum length of a few centimeters. Its translucent, almost glassy appearance gives it the moniker “Glassy Plume Hydroid.” The species’ slender form and delicate branches contribute to its alternative name, “Little Seabristle.”
Habitat and Occurrence
Plumularia setacea thrives in coastal waters, often found attached to hard surfaces such as rocks, seaweed, and even marine debris. This species is a common sight in the intertidal zone, the area between high and low tide marks, where it experiences fluctuations in water levels and temperature. Plumularia setacea is well adapted to life in this dynamic environment, showcasing a remarkable ability to withstand the challenges of the littoral zone. This hydroid is also found in subtidal zones, the areas below the low tide mark, extending into the depths of the neritic zone, the shallow water area of the continental shelf. Its distribution is influenced by factors like water temperature, salinity, and the availability of suitable surfaces for attachment.
Taxonomy
The species Plumularia setacea belongs to the Class: Hydrozoa, Order: Leptothecata, and Family: Plumulariidae. Hydrozoans are a diverse group of invertebrates that exhibit both polyp and medusa forms during their life cycle. Leptothecata, the order to which Plumularia setacea belongs, comprises hydroids characterized by their distinct, often feathery branching patterns. The Plumulariidae family, distinguished by its intricate structures and often feather-like colonies, provides the framework for Plumularia setacea’s classification. This scientific classification reflects the evolutionary relationships and shared characteristics within this group of marine organisms.
Feeding
Plumularia setacea is a suspension feeder, capturing its food from the surrounding water column. It relies on a specialized feeding structure, known as a polyp, which is equipped with tentacles for capturing microscopic food particles such as plankton. This method of feeding allows Plumularia setacea to take advantage of the abundance of microscopic organisms present in its marine environment. The tentacles, armed with stinging cells called nematocysts, paralyze and capture prey, which is then transported to the polyp’s mouth for digestion. The feeding habits of Plumularia setacea contribute to its role in the marine food web, playing a crucial part in the transfer of energy from microscopic organisms to larger predators.
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