Organization and metamorphic remodeling of the nervous system in juveniles of Phoronopsis harmeri (Phoronida): insights into evolution of the bilaterian nervous system.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Metamorphic remodeling of the nervous system and its organization in juvenile may shed light on early steps of evolution and can be used as an important criterion for establishing the relationships among large groups of animals. The protostomian affiliation of phoronids does not still have certain morphological and embryological proofs. In addition, the relationship of phoronids and other former "lophophorates" is still uncertain. The resolving of these conflicts requires detailed information from poorly investigated members of phoronids, such as Phoronopsis harmeri.

Results

During metamorphosis, the juvenile consumes the nerve elements of the larval hood. Two dorsolateral groups of larval perikarya remain and give rise to the dorsal ganglion, which appears as the

SUBMITTER: Temereva EN 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4026883 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature