Neppikankaat

Neppikankaat, also known as "Moss Animals" or "Bryozoans," are small, aquatic invertebrates that form colonies. They are found in both marine and freshwater environments, with the majority of species inhabiting the ocean. These organisms are filter feeders, using their tentacle-like structures called lophophores to capture food particles from the water.

Each individual in a bryozoan colony is called a zooid, and these zooids are genetically identical, having arisen from a single ancestral organism. The colonies can take various forms, including encrusting, branching, or erect structures, depending on the species. Some colonies can grow to be quite large, with some marine species forming extensive reefs.

Bryozoans have a unique life cycle that includes both sexual and asexual reproduction. The colonies produce specialized zooids that release either eggs or sperm into the water. After fertilization, the resulting larvae, called cyphonautes, swim freely for a period before settling on a substrate and developing into a new colony. Asexual reproduction occurs through a process called budding, where new zooids grow from existing ones.

These organisms play a significant role in their ecosystems. They contribute to the food web by filtering plankton and other small particles from the water, and their colonies provide habitats and attachment surfaces for various marine organisms. Additionally, some bryozoan species are sensitive to environmental changes, making them useful indicators of water quality and ecosystem health.

Despite their ecological importance, bryozoans are often overlooked due to their small size and inconspicuous nature. However, they represent a fascinating and diverse group of animals with a complex life cycle and significant ecological impact.