Need Phoronid Specimens for Research Study

[santagata]

Hello,

I am a biologist at Long Island University interested in phoronid specimens from the subtidal habitats in the southern California. Phoronids look roughly like worms, but can be distinguished by their U-shaped ring (sometimes in whorls) of tentacles. You may have seen Phoronopsis californica befores since it is fairly wide-spread around Catalina and San Diego (see attached picture). I would be interested in any phoronid specimens, either live or preserved in ethanol. There are several different species found in southern California so I would appreciate seeing any photos you may have taken. If you are interested please email me for more details.

Thanks,
Scott Santagata

 

[drbill]

Collection of phoronids in California waters most likely requires a collecting permit issued by the State. Of course they are quite abundant in our waters around Catalina.

 

[santagata]

Sure, I understand. I already have a few Phoronopsis californica specimens (feeding tentacles are arranged in a orange spiraled lophophore) from southern california, although not from Catalina. Actually I am more interested in other species not from Catalina. If you ever see other types besides Ph. californica let me know the site, I can get permits.

Thanks,
Scott