Feeding behavior in the genus Arachnanthus (Cnidaria; Anthozoa; Ceriantharia)

Abstract

The phylum Cnidaria is composed of animals that have great importance in the maintenance of aquatic ecosystems. One of the groups that integrate this phylum is the subclass Ceriantharia, considered the minor and the group less studied of the cnidarians. Although the phylum presents several studies related to the ecological processes of the food web, the cerianthids do not exhibit analyzes of this type. As the subclass has particularities in relation to the other phylum groups, the results obtained in these studies may not correspond to those presented by these animals. In this way, the present study aims to compile information about the food behavior of the genus Arachnanthus, with the purpose of understanding the ecological processes that influence the trophic performance of the genus. To do this, in situ filming and analysis of stomach contents by Metabarcoding of specimens located in São Sebastião (BR) and Okinawa (JP) will be performed. With the data provided in this research, it will be possible to identify parameters never previously observed in animals belonging to this group, in relation to the capture of prey in a natural environment, the characterization of the main classes of animals that make up the diet of these species and their importance in trophic chain.