Published online by Cambridge University Press: 11 May 2009
The systematic position of the hydroid Trichydra pudica has been uncertain because of lack of knowledge of its life-history. Medusae released from it have been reared to maturity and prove to be the species Pochella polynema. The stages of development of the medusa are described and figured. The systematic relationships of the medusa are discussed: it has the general characters of the Anthomedusae, to which the species is accordingly removed. The name Trichydra pudica has priority and should be used for both hydroid and medusa. The apparently related species Pochella oligonema should be known as Trichydra oligonema.