Appendicularian
Appendicularians are tiny sea animals related to sea-squirts. These transparent creatures never reach
maturity but reach sexual maturity as juveniles. The loss of the adult phase coupled with juvenile
reproduction is known as paedogenesis. Unlike the sea-squirt, the sessile appendicularian feeds by
secreting a sticky mucus over its head which traps small plankton. This plankton is then eaten by the
animal. Very small plankton matter remains trapped in the mucus and is not eaten by the
appendicularian. In time this mucus membrane with excessive plankton stuck to it is cast off by the
appendicularian. A new mucus cap is secreted for the next half hour and the appendicularian begins
to feed again.
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