Record of bi-operculate fouling serpulid polychaete, Hydroides operculatus (Treadwell, 1929) from Diu, west coast of India

Abstract

The bi-operculate form of fouling serpulid polychaete, Hydroides operculatus Treadwell, 1929 was studied. This variant was found in samples collected from Diu, North West coast of India. A perusal of literature indicates that the bi-operculate form is an advanced ontogenic stage of the polychaete rather than a different taxon. Such stages are transient and therefore rarely seen in natural populations. Polychaete species identification is intrinsic to many ecological and environmental studies. Therefore this study will help prevent possible taxonomic confusion due to the presence of dual functional opercula.