Family Aphrocallistidae Gray, 1867

Abstract

Aphrocallistidae Gray (Hexactinellida, Hexactinosida) is distinguished among uncinate- and scopule-bearing dictyonine hexactinosans by possession of diarhyses as skeletal channels. The group has a relatively simple and straightforward history, and presently contains only seven recent species in two genera. Occurrence of members in shallow water directly accessible by SCUBA is responsible for numerous recent studies on their soft tissue organization, biochemistry and genetic sequences. In somewhat deeper shelf waters, members of the family are major constructors of modern bioherms, comparable to fossil hexactinellid reefs.