Lemnaliidae

Common Names

Members of this family are often referred to simply as "lemnalid hydroids." However, specific species may have other common names, depending on their morphology and geographic distribution.

Characteristics

Lemnaliidae members are characterized by the following traits:

• Colonial structure: They form colonies composed of interconnected polyps, each specialized for a particular function (e.g., feeding, reproduction, defense).
• Hydrothecae: Their feeding polyps, known as hydranths, are typically enclosed in protective cups called hydrothecae. These hydrothecae can be highly variable in shape and size.
• Gonothecae: Reproductive polyps, called gonophores, are often enclosed within structures called gonothecae. These structures can be quite elaborate and may serve to protect developing medusae.
• Medusae: Some Lemnaliidae species produce medusae, free-swimming jellyfish-like forms, while others are known only in their polyp stage.

Environments

Lemnaliidae species are predominantly found in marine environments. They are often found attached to hard substrates such as rocks, shells, or seaweeds in coastal areas. Some species are also known to occur in deeper waters.

References

For further information on Lemnaliidae, refer to the following resources:

• World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS)
• National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
• ResearchGate