The true and false gonophores of Coryne epizoica and its shell colonizing mechanisms

Abstract

The reproductive organs of Coryne epizoica (Stechow 1921) are described for the first time. The gonophores are sessile sporosacs of the styloid type developing in the axils of the tentacles. The characteristic sac-like outgrowths of the hydrocaulus, previously suspected to be incipient gonophores, are actually an adhesive organ likely used to translocate hydranths to other gastropod shells and thus promote vegetative growth and spreading.