What is this creature called “Bryozoan” that looks like an alien egg?

It would probably not be an exaggeration to say that this “thing”, which can be disturbing in appearance and resembles huge gelatinous bags, resembles an alien egg. Actually, this “thing” is not a single “thing”. It contains a colony.

If you have enough question marks in your mind, taking a closer look at what this strange creature is Let’s satisfy our curiosity.

The name of the interesting living species is “bryozoan”.

The structure begins to form in spring, reaches its peak in late summer and autumn, and dies in winter. These animals, which emerged through asexual reproduction, Yes, you heard right, animals; It is called “bryozoan”.

It is estimated that there are more than 4000 species of bryozoans found on all continents except Antarctica. Most of them live in the marine environment. Only 24 of those in North America can live in fresh water.

Its origins date back to 488 million years ago.

Bryozoans, which are quite harmless, can even be seen in the waters of urban centers. Their only downside is that they get stuck in filtration systems. by bringing together small organisms, said Kathleen Stormont of the Stanley Park Ecology Society. forming a colony These animals have very ancient lineages that have remained unchanged for hundreds of thousands of years.

So what exactly is the structure of Bryozoans?

These interesting animals have a very uncomplicated structure. Their mouths and anuses are in the same place and They have organs known as polypids. They also have a U-shaped limb called the “lophophore” that filters possible nutrients from the environment, such as algae.

They have a much more important mission than we can imagine.

According to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, these animals are: an important part of the ecosystem because they clean the water and serve as prey for mussels, snails and small fish. Their green color increases the clarity of the water due to the algae they eat.

Although they are not dangerous, such a creature can be seen swimming in water. if it touched our feet Who knows what we will do?

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