Celomic cells of the marine fireworm Hermodice carunculata (Annelida, Polychaeta)

Abstract

Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
We have examined the morphological and functional characteristics of the celomic cells in the marine fireworm Hermodice carunculata. The cells differ in morphology, in relation to the presence of cytoplasmic granules, adhere to the glass, phagocytize zymosan A particles and contain ACTH-like molecules. We suggest the presence of only one cell type in the worm celomic fluid, i.e., the immunocyte described in other invertebrates.