Ultrastructural investigation of spicule formation in the gorgonianLeptogorgia virgulata (Lamarck) (Coelenterata: Gorgonacea)

Summary Ultrastructural examination of original and regenerated branch tips of the gorgonianLeptogorgia virgulata reveals that spicule formation begins with the aggregation of scleroblasts in the mesoglea. Calcite crystal deposition occurs within a Golgi vacuole containing organic matrix. Vacuole size increases while matrix incorporation and subsequent crystal growth continue, filling the vacuole. At approximately this time, the scleroblasts dissociate and wart formation begins. Further spicule growth stretches the cell into a thin envelope. Fusion of vacuole and plasma membrane followed by breach formation during spicule growth, as well as scleroblast atrophy or migration from mature spicules, result in the transition of the spicule from the intracellular to the extracellular environment. The results also reveal aborted spicules and digestive bodies, implying possible relationships among calcification, detoxification, and waste management.Contribution No 436, Belle W. Baruch Institute for Marine Biology and Coastal Research, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, 29208, USA