Bavestrello, G.; Bonito, M.; Sarà, M. (1993). Influence of depth on the size of sponge spicules. In: Uriz MJ, Rützler K (eds) Recent advances in ecology and systematics of sponges. Scientia Marina. 57: 415-420.

285052

Bavestrello, G.; Bonito, M.; Sarà, M.

1993

57: 415-420

Publication

Proceedings of the 8th Workshop on Atlanto-Mediterranean Sponge Taxonomy

Available for editors   [request]

This study confirms the findings of other laboratory experiments and field observations indicating that spicule size in two species of Demospongiae, Petrosia ficiformis and Cliona azzaroliae, increases with depth over their broad bathymetric range. Water temperature therefore appears to have an effect on spicule size in both cases. The megasderae of C. azzaroliae (both its tylostyles and oxeas) do not behave uniformly, however, as the oxeas are more variable than the tylostyles. These environmentally induced variations in spicule size are examined in the framework of developmental modulation, a theory postulating that environmental factors may modulate the same genetic developmental program in continuo.

Mediterranean Sea in general

Systematics, Taxonomy

Porifera

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