Elsevier

Organisms Diversity & Evolution

Volume 4, Issue 3, 2 September 2004, Pages 175-188
Organisms Diversity & Evolution

Potential key characters in Opisthobranchia (Gastropoda, Mollusca) enhancing adaptive radiation

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Abstract

Five potential key characters which might have enhanced species radiation in the Opisthobranchia (Gastropoda) are discussed. These are: 3–4 cuticular plates in the gizzard of Cephalaspidea s.str., kleptoplasty in Sacoglossa, kleptocnides in Aeolidoidea, a symbiotic relationship with unicellular algae in Phyllodesmium Ehrenberg, 1831, and mantle dermal formations in Chromodorididae. Interpretation of the characters as key innovations is based on phylogeny and/or comparison of species numbers in subgroups. Possible adaptive zones are discussed, and alternative interpretations indicated.

Keywords

Adaptive radiation
Key characters
Kleptoplasty
Kleptocnides
MDFs
Zooxanthellate symbiosis

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