User:Pqip/Scotoplanes globosa

Ecology
Congregations of smaller Scotoplanes globosa are often observed on the ocean floor in groups of 10 to 30. However, groups of Scotoplanes globosa have been observed to be as many as 600 individuals in one congregation. A congregation of Scotoplanes globosa is called a "trawl". These groups of Scotoplanes globosa often appear to all be facing in one direction, into the ocean current. It is believed that this behavior aids S. globosa in the detection of the richest feeding sites. Scotoplanes globosa has also been observed to be the host of multiple deep-sea parasites, such as the small gastropods Stilapex and Crinolamia, and various parasitic crustaceans. These parasites typically bore small holes into the body wall of ''S. globosa. Scotoplanes globosa are also often accompanied by a symbiotic lithodid crab, the Neolithodes diomedea''. It is believed that approximately 22% of Scotoplanes globosa are attended by at least one of these crabs. One possible theory is that these crabs latch onto S. globosa gaining access to nutrients and movement, while the host gets protection from parasites. At this time, scientists are unsure whether the relationship between S. globosa and N. diomedea is mutualistic or commensal.

Anatomy
Scotoplanes globosa is typically 2 to 15 cm in length and appear to be a translucent white color. S. globosa bilaterally symmetrical, covered in tube-like feet which are used in locomotion and possibly respiration. The tube-like structures found on top of the Scotoplanes globosa are also feet composed of the same tissue as the tube-like feet, as opposed to antennae. Scientists are still unsure whether these upper-tube-feet are used in locomotion or used as sensory accessories. They are quite buoyant and are easily displaced by strong currents. Scotoplanes globosa were found to contain only one gonad in both males and females, with evidence that gametogenesis occurred.