Further observations on tentacular feeding mechanisms in holothurians

David Roberts, C. Bryce

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

30 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Resource partitioning by aspidochirote holothurians from Beacon Island, Western Australia is largely on the basis of distinct macro- and micro-habitat preferences. Where two or more species occur together or overlap, food partitioning may be by using distinct feeding techniques (Holothuria cinerascens (Brandt), H. impatiens (Forskal) and H. difficilis Semper) or by particle selectivity (H. cf. pervicax Selenka and H. hartmeyeri Erwe). Methods of particle handling by the majority of species studied are similar, involving the use of tentacular nodules on sediment deposits but H. cinerascens collects particles from suspension in a dendrochirote-like tentacle. The nature and rôle of surface secretions are considered for both types of tentacles and the taxonomic value of tentacle form in the Holothurioidea questioned.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)151-163
Number of pages13
JournalJournal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology
Volume59(2-3)
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1982

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