Ultrastructural organization of choanocyte chambers in the haplosclerid Pellina semitubulosa (Porifera, Demospongiae): A cue for water flow into the sponge body

The choanocyte chambers of the haplosclerid Pellina semitubulosa were investigated with regard to their ultrastructural architecture. They are separated from the mesohyl and contain central cells arranged to form a uniform layer. Their cytoplasmic extensions enter the distal parts of the choanocyte...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The Italian journal of zoology 1997-01, Vol.64 (4), p.291-296
Main Authors: Sciscioli, Margherita, Lepore, Elena, Corriero, Giuseppe, Scalera-Liaci, Lidia, Gaino, Elda
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Aquiferous system
Central cells
Haplosclerida
Marine
Pellina semitubulosa
Porifera
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Summary:The choanocyte chambers of the haplosclerid Pellina semitubulosa were investigated with regard to their ultrastructural architecture. They are separated from the mesohyl and contain central cells arranged to form a uniform layer. Their cytoplasmic extensions enter the distal parts of the choanocyte collars, thus enveloping the end of the microvilli. Central cells seal up all the spaces between choanocyte collars. On the basis of choanocyte chamber architecture, a water flow dynamics and related filter feeding activity is proposed, which supports a water passageway through the small microvillar slits into the interior of the collar. A slight detachment of the central cells from the microvillar ends originates spaces for a direct water flow into the chamber. Such a plastic organization might enhance the filtration efficiency and prevent chamber clogging as well.
ISSN:1125-0003
1748-5851
DOI:10.1080/11250009709356215