The functional morphology of Otina otis, a primitive marine pulmonate

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
O. otis, occurring on the s.w. coast of England, is described in detail with reference to the structure and mode of action of the pallial cavity, alimentary canal and reproductive system. The alimentary canal, especially in the stomach, conforms to the pattern of the earliest members of the Pulmonata, and shows a number of resemblances to prosobranchs. The cycle of absorption, digestion and excretion in the digestive gland is described and illustrated. The reproductive system is protandrously hermaphroditic, and the female accessory organs consist of an albumen gland and anterior and posterior mucus glands, as well as a bursa copulatrix and an accessory bursa. The embryos are operculate and remain enclosed in the egg capsule. Affinities of Otina among the Basommatophora are discussed, especially its relationships with the Ellobiidae and other marine pulmonates.

This publication has 12 references indexed in Scilit: