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Many bryozoans living in water-depths greater than 1000m have been found living attached to pebbles and other hard surfaces. Some bryozoans have adapted to life on the oozy, muddy substrates that are common at great water depths by rooting themselves securely in the soft sediment. In areas of high sedimentation, bryozoans may disturb the water by rotating their tentacles quickly. This ensures they are not overwhelmed by sediment particles.
The image below shows Stomatopora, a Cyclostomatid, encrusting a pebble in the deep sea.
Redrawn from Clarkson (1998)
Author: Luke Mander
Last updated: 20.11.05
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