In the early stages of their life cycle, many marine invertebrates (animals without backbones) are often free-swimming larvae covered with tiny hair-like structures (cilia). These larvae possess a grouping of sensory cells, known as an apical organ, and some also have a long tuft of cilia, called an apical tuft. Like an antenna, the apical … Read more
Plants, which rely on photosynthesis to survive have evolved to move towards a light source; but for the first time, similar behaviour has been recorded in marine animals. Researchers from the Marine Biological Association (MBA) have discovered that snakelocks anemones (Anemonia viridis) are heliotropic – they track the sun by pointing their tentacles towards it while remaining … Read more
The Marine Biological Association
The Laboratory,
Citadel Hill Plymouth,
Devon
PL1 2PB, UK
The Marine Biological Association conducts, promotes and supports scientific research into all aspects of life in the sea. We're working with our ever-growing membership to provide a clear and independent voice on behalf of the marine biological community