In this view one can see the double (biserial) row of zooecia along the branches, the round apertures without opercula, and the slight curving of the tips of the branches inward. An Ooeciostome, or opening for the reproductive ovicell, can be seen in the center of the central branch near the lower third of the picture. Note that it is a straight, slitlike opening. Several joints can also be seen in the branches, which gives the colony more flexibility.
This closeup of a branch tip shows several zooids with extended lophophores. Cilia (visible as fuzzy edges to the lophophore tentacles) beat rapidly on the lophophores, creating a strong water current which flows into the center of the lophophore cup and out between the tentacles.
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Year: 2018. Contact: disco.nhm@gmail.com +1-213-763-3217.
Barcode of Life Data Systems
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Year: 2018. Contact: disco.nhm@gmail.com +1-213-763-3217.
Barcode of Life Data Systems
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Year: 2018. Contact: disco.nhm@gmail.com +1-213-763-3217.
Barcode of Life Data Systems
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Year: 2018. Contact: disco.nhm@gmail.com +1-213-763-3217.
Barcode of Life Data Systems