The evolution and development of polyclad flatworms

The tiger flatworm, Maritigrella crozieri on the ascidian Ecteinascidia turbinata.

A team of researchers from University College London (Professor Max Telford, Dr Kate Rawlinson, Fraser Simpson), University of North Florida (Kevin Olsen) and Cambridge University (Dr Andrew Gillis) are staying at KML for a month. They are collecting embryos and hatchlings of the tiger flatworm Maritigrella crozieri. This beautiful worm is abundant in the Florida Keys, and is commonly found in association with its favorite food item – the mangrove ascidian Ecteinascidia turbinata.

Andrew examining Ecteinascidia turbinata on the mangrove roots.

Fieldwork involves the collection of sexually mature worms from clumps of Ecteinascidia by snorkeling and kayaking in mangrove creeks. These worms are then brought back to the lab, where their eggs and larval stages are preserved for future genetic analysis.

Kevin diligently cleaning an aquarium of Maritigrella crozieri in KML's Common Dry Lab.

This material will be used as part of a long-term study to better understand how different marine invertebrates develop from a single cell to an adult, often via a series of seemingly very different developmental stages.The team, pictured here enjoying cold drinks from the Midway Café after a hot morning in the mangroves of Tavernier Key. From left to right; Kevin Olsen, Fraser Simpson, Kate Rawlinson and Andrew Gillis.