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Species Description:
Stylochus sp. are generally oval in shape, with greatly flattened
bodies. Color is tan to darker brown. They are common inhabitants of
oyster reefs and reach 2.5 - 3.2 cm (approximately 1 inch) in length.
Other Taxonomic Groupings:
Suborder: Acotylea.
II. HABITAT AND
DISTRIBUTION
Regional Occurrence:
Extent of range is undetermined.
IRL Distribution:
Stylochus sp. is found throughout the Indian
River Lagoon, and is most abundant in areas where oysters occur.
III. LIFE HISTORY AND POPULATION BIOLOGY
Age, Size, Lifespan:
Typical and maximum adult sizes of Stylochus sp. are 25 x 12mm and 32 x
15 mm respectively.
Abundance:
Adult Stylochus sp. are considered common in empty oyster shells from
Lake Worth to West Palm Beach.
Reproduction:
Stylochus sp. is a simultaneous hermaphrodite.
Embryology:
Egg masses of Stylochus sp. are laid inside empty oyster shell and hatch
as Götte's larvae.
IV. PHYSICAL TOLERANCES
V. COMMUNITY ECOLOGY
Trophic Mode:
Stylochus sp. preys on oysters, barnacles and planktonic larvae.
Habitat:
Preferred substratum for Stylochus sp. is oyster reef.
VI. SPECIAL STATUS
Special Status:
Economic Impact
Notes on Endemism:
The invasion status of Stylochus sp. is unknown but its larvae have been
found in bilge water.
Economic Importance:
Stylochus sp. can be considered to have an adverse economic impact in the
Indian River Lagoon because it preys on oysters.
Report by: J. Dineen,
Smithsonian Marine Station
with thanks to L. Newman
Submit additional information, photos or comments to:
irl_webmaster@si.edu
Page last updated: July 25, 2001
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