Abstract
The fine structure of the ectodermal surface of the planula larva of Hydractinia echinata is described and the spatial distribution of cell types quantified. The larval ectoderm contains five cell types: nematocytes, gland cells, epitheliomuscular cells, neurosensory cells, and nerve cells. Nematocytes (atrichous isorhizas and desmonemes) and neurosensory cells are clustered at the tapered posterior end of the larvae. Mucous cells occur over the surface of the planula, but are particularly common at the anterior end. The larva is similar to others described from marine hydroids, except that (a) gland cells display a ring of microvilli emerging from a cavity encircling the cilium and (b) nerve cells appear to lack a cilium.
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