A ciliated planula is the young, typically flattened, oval or oblong, free-swimming larva of a cnidarian characterized by its covering of cilia. The following information clarifies this definition:
Characteristics of a Ciliated Planula
- Early Life Stage: It represents an early developmental stage in the life cycle of cnidarians.
- Shape and Size: Usually flattened, oval or oblong, though variations can occur depending on the cnidarian species.
- Motility: It is free-swimming, using its cilia for locomotion.
- Cilia Coverage: The body is covered in cilia, tiny hair-like structures that beat in coordination to propel the larva through the water.
- Cnidarian Specific: It is a larval form specific to the phylum Cnidaria, which includes jellyfish, corals, sea anemones, and hydra.
Role of Ciliated Planula
The ciliated planula serves as a dispersal phase in the cnidarian life cycle. After a period of swimming, the planula will settle onto a suitable substrate and undergo metamorphosis into the adult polyp form (in many cnidarians).
