Phacellophoridae
Phacellophoridae is a family of hydrozoans belonging to the order Leptothecata. They are commonly known as “stalked jellyfish” due to their unique morphology. These colonial cnidarians exhibit a distinct polyp stage with a stalk-like structure supporting a feeding polyp, known as a hydranth, which is responsible for capturing prey.
Common Names
Phacellophoridae is commonly referred to as "stalked jellyfish" due to their characteristic polyp structure. Other names include "stalked hydroids" and "stalked polyps."
Characteristics
Phacellophoridae members share several defining characteristics, including:
- Stalked Polyp: They possess a prominent stalk that supports the feeding polyp.
- Hydranth: The feeding polyp, or hydranth, is responsible for capturing prey using stinging cells called nematocysts.
- Colony Formation: Phacellophoridae are colonial organisms, meaning they live in groups connected by a shared body structure called a coenosarc.
- Reproduction: They reproduce both sexually and asexually. Sexual reproduction involves the release of gametes, while asexual reproduction occurs through budding.
- Diversity: Phacellophoridae includes a variety of species with different colony forms, polyp shapes, and sizes.
Environments
Phacellophoridae are found in various marine environments, primarily in shallow coastal waters. They are typically attached to substrates like rocks, seaweeds, and other marine organisms.