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What is a siphonophore?

AnimalsMarine invertebrates

Quick Answer

A siphonophore is a marine animal made up of many specialized individuals that live together as one colony. Some, like the Portuguese man o' war, are famous ocean drifters.

The Full Story

Siphonophores are cnidarians related to jellyfish and corals, but they are colonies of zooids that function as a single organism. Different parts handle floating, feeding, swimming, and reproduction. Some species can grow extraordinarily long, and one deep-sea species, Apolemia, has been recorded at more than 45 meters in length. Their body plans show how cooperation among tiny units can produce one of the ocean’s most unusual life forms.

Key Facts

1.Colonial animal made of specialized zooids
2.Related to jellyfish and corals
3.Some species can be over 45 meters long

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Suggested video title for this topic:

"One animal, many bodies: the bizarre siphonophore"