Coronula
Coronula is a genus of barnacles belonging to the family Coronulidae. They are commonly known as “whale barnacles” due to their exclusive parasitic relationship with whales. These barnacles are found attached to the skin of various whale species, particularly baleen whales, where they feed on the water surrounding their host.
Characteristics
Coronula barnacles are distinguished by their distinctive, conical shell. Their shell is typically white or yellowish, and its base is flattened and securely attached to the host's skin. The operculum, which is a pair of movable plates that cover the opening of the shell, is usually reddish-brown in color. Their body, like other barnacles, is encased within the shell and has six pairs of appendages called cirri, which are used to capture food particles.
Environment
As obligate parasites, Coronula barnacles exclusively reside on the skin of whales. They have adapted to survive in the harsh marine environment, where they endure constant exposure to seawater, strong currents, and the movement of their host. The specific locations on the whale's body where they attach can vary, but they are often found on the whale's head, body, and flippers.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Coronula involves several stages. The barnacle larvae are free-swimming, and they must find a suitable whale host to attach to. Once attached, they undergo metamorphosis, transforming into adults. Adult barnacles reproduce sexually, releasing eggs and sperm into the water. These eggs then develop into larvae, starting the cycle anew.