Introduction to the Rhizocephala (Crustacea: Cirripedia). |
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Authors: | G Walker |
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Affiliation: | School of Ocean Sciences, University of Wales, Bangor, Anglesey, N. Wales, UK. oss036@bangor.ac.uk |
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Abstract: | Knowledge about the Rhizocephala (parasitic barnacles) has increased exponentially over the past two decades. This introduction broadly reviews this progress, touching on rhizocephalan morphology, life-cycles, larval biology, and the effects on the crustacean hosts. Members representing both orders, the Kentrogonida and Akentrogonida, are discussed. The recent discovery regarding the vermigon stage further highlights the intricacy of the kentrogonid life-cycle. Because rhizocephalans are found in most world regions, occurring on their respective hosts from the deep ocean to freshwater, their importance is now being recognized. |
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Keywords: | parasitic barnacles Rhizocephala life‐cycles reproduction larvae host interaction |
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