Microborings in Recent brachiopods and the functions of caeca
- 1 April 1983
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Scandinavian University Press / Universitetsforlaget AS in Lethaia
- Vol. 16 (2) , 119-127
- https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1502-3931.1983.tb01707.x
Abstract
Microborings in the primary shell layer of Recent brachipods are clearly seen to avoid endopunctate microscopic canals pervading the shell fabric and housing papillose extentions of the mantle (the ceca). This avoidance confirms the suggestion that the cecal contents inhibit boring organisms and as such the cecum can be considered as an important instrument in protecting the brachiopod shell. A comparison of the relative fecundity of co-habitating impunctate and endopunctate New Zealand brachiopods provides indirect evidence that the cecum may also function in a nutrient storage capacity.This publication has 7 references indexed in Scilit:
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