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Luminescence in Polynoid Worms

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  11 May 2009

J. A. C. Nicol
Affiliation:
The Plymouth Laboratory

Extract

Six species of luminescent polynoids of the Plymouth fauna have been studied, namely Lagisca extenuata, Gattyana cirrosa, Harmothoë liinulata, Polynoë scolopendrina, Acholoë astericola and Malmgrenia castanea. Their scales are luminescent, and the light is produced by granular eosinophilic photocytes, which form a unicellular layer on the lower surface of the scale. The nervous supply of the elytrum is described, and the luminescent response is shown to be under nervous control. Luminescent responses from all six species have been recorded by the use of a photomultiplier cell and oscilloscope. The normal response has been found to consist of a series of rhythmic flashes, from 9 to 1 per sec, lasting up to 1 min. Some characteristics of the luminescent responses are given, and the part they may play in the normal life of the animal is discussed.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom 1953

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