IDENTIFICATION (with reason) OF Balanus sp. (B.Sc. ZOOLOGY_CCF-CC5_SEM4)

 Identifying features are:

1. Multicellular heterotroph.
2. embryonic development, preceded by heterogametic fertilization.

            Hence, the specimen belongs to the Kingdom Animalia.

1. Segmented body covered by chitinous cuticle.
2. Body segment bear paired externally jointed appendages.
3. Anterior photoreceptors are present.

           Hence, the specimen belongs to the Phylum Arthropoda.

1. Carapace is covered the dorsal surface.
2. Head bears a pair of compound eyes located on movable stalk.
3. Two pairs of pre oral & Three pairs of post oral appendages are present on the head.
4. Antennules are uniramous but other appendages are biramous.
5. Phyllopodium or Stenopodium are biramous appendages.

               Hence, the specimen belongs to the Sub Phylum Crustacea.

1. Poorly segmented body.
2. Body enclosed in a folded carapace.
3. Presence of six pairs of similar biramous thoracic appendages.
4. Rudimentary abdomen or abdomen is lacking.

               Hence, the specimen belongs to the Class Cirripedia

1. Poorly segmented body.
2. Body is enclosed within a bivalved carapace.
3. Scutum & tergum support the valvular carapace.
4. Membranous preoral surface is modified for attachment.
5. Six calcareous plates surround the body of the animal.

                Hence, the specimen seems to be Balanus.

Systematic Position (Ruppert & Barnes 1994)

 Kingdom: Animalia

   Phylum: Arthropoda

         Sub Phylum :Crustacea

                 Class: Cirripedia

                     Genus: Balanus