Abstract

The feeding biology of Branchiostoma senegalense Webb from the North-West African shelf region off Mauritania was investigated. The hindgut contained almost exclusively seston components, ranging in size from less than 1 μm (bacteria size) to 300 μm. Numerous chloroplasts of ingested phytoplankton appeared to be undigested. Dunaliella salina was still alive when leaving the anus after 1 to 2 h. Detritus formed the greater part of the gut contents. The authors conclude that the lancelets feed mainly on detritus and thus are indiscriminate suspension feeders.

Full Text
Published version (Free)

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call