Heteralepadidae

Common Names

Barnacles in the family Heteralepadidae are commonly known as "stalked barnacles" or "goose barnacles." The name "goose barnacle" is a misnomer, as these barnacles are not related to geese. The name likely arose from the misconception that these barnacles were the eggs of geese, which were thought to grow on trees and then fall into the ocean.

Characteristics

Heteralepadidae barnacles are characterized by the following features:

• Elongated, flexible peduncle
• Distinct cap with six valves
• Presence of a carina (a ridge along the dorsal surface of the cap)
• Often have a long, thin stalk
• Usually found in deep water
• Sessile, meaning they are attached to a substrate
• Filter feeders, using their cirri to trap plankton

Environments

Heteralepadidae barnacles are found in a wide range of marine environments, from shallow waters to the deep sea. They are typically found attached to other marine organisms, such as:

• Whales
• Sea turtles
• Fish
• Seafloor sediments
• Corals
• Other barnacles

Some species of Heteralepadidae barnacles are known to be commensal, meaning they live in a relationship with another organism without harming it. For example, the species Heteralepas quadrata is often found attached to the shell of the barnacle Lepas anatifera. However, other species of Heteralepadidae barnacles can be parasitic, living on and feeding off of their host organism.

References

For more information on Heteralepadidae, please refer to the following resources:

• World Register of Marine Species
• PubMed
• ResearchGate