Aglaophenia

Aglaophenia is a genus of colonial hydroids in the family Plumulariidae. They are commonly known as “feather hydroids” due to their distinctive feathery appearance. These colonial organisms are widely distributed in marine environments worldwide, with species found in both shallow and deep waters.

Ostrichplume Hydroid, Ostrich Plumed Hydroid – Aglaophenia struthionides

Podded Hydroid, Tooth Feather Hydroid – Aglaophenia pluma

Aglaophenia tubiformis

Aglaophenia latirostris

Aglaophenia plumosa

Aglaophenia kirchenpaueri

Aglaophenia whiteleggei

Aglaophenia Tubulifera – Aglaophenia tubulifera

Characteristics

Aglaophenia colonies are characterized by their branching, feather-like structure. Each colony is composed of numerous individual polyps, known as zooids, which are connected by a central stalk or axis. The zooids are typically arranged in rows along the branches, giving the colony its feathery appearance.

The polyps of Aglaophenia are highly specialized for different functions. Some polyps are responsible for feeding, while others are involved in reproduction. The feeding polyps, known as gastrozooids, have tentacles that capture small prey organisms. Reproductive polyps, known as gonozooids, produce medusae, which are free-swimming, jellyfish-like forms that are responsible for sexual reproduction.

Environments

Aglaophenia species are found in a wide range of marine environments, including rocky shores, coral reefs, and deep-sea habitats. They are typically found attached to hard substrates, such as rocks, shells, or seaweed. Some species are also known to grow on the surface of other marine organisms, such as sponges or bryozoans.

References