Comparative analysis of the nervous system structure of polymorphic zooids in marine bryozoans.

The nervous system structure was compared for the first time in avicularia and vibracula in seven species of the cheilostome bryozoans from six families by immunohistochemical methods and confocal scanning microscopy. Regardless of significant differences in heterozooid shape, size, and position in a colony, their muscular and nervous systems have a common structure, which suggests their parallel evolution.

Distribution of serotonin and FMRF-amide in the nervous system of different zooidal types of cheilostome bryozoa: A case study of Arctonula arctica.

In the White Sea bryozoans Arctonula arctica, the structure of the nervous system and distribution of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and FMRF-amide were studied for the first time using immunohistochemical methods and confocal scanning microscopy. The neurotransmitters studied have been actively involved into the integrative processes, gut functioning, and regulation of motion activity. In avicularia, 5-HT and FMRF-amide receptors are capable of performing the same functions, except for participation in the gut functioning, because they have no digestive system.