Giant barnacle [Cucullella megastoma]
Description
The Cucullella megastoma, commonly known as the giant barnacle, is a species of barnacle in the family Balanidae. It is found in the waters of the Southern Ocean. This species is characterized by a large, conical shell with a wide opening. It is a sessile filter feeder, attaching itself to rocks and other hard surfaces. It uses its feathery legs (cirri) to catch plankton and detritus from the water.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Mollusks
Mollusca
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Clams, Oysters, and Scallops
Bivalvia
|
| Order |
Ark Clams
Arcida
|
| Family |
Ponderous Arks
Cucullaeidae
|
| Genus |
Cucullella
Cucullella
|