SPEAKER: MacKenna Hainey, Oregon Institute of Marine Biology, University of Oregon
TOPIC: Research on an Oregon Ophiuroid
ABSTRACT: Ophiuroids are the largest class of Echinoderms, yet they remain largely understudied in terms of ecological importance and behavior. My research at the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology began by observing one peculiar behavior in the northern basket star (Gorgonocephalus eucnemis). I noticed the disc (main body) of the basket star would rhythmically rise and fall a few times an hour. There was little information in the literature regarding this behavior, other than its name – bursal ventilation—and some suggested functions. My research set out to uncover more information surrounding this behavior. I designed experiments to empirically test for specific functions such as respiration. While describing the behavior of bursal ventilation, I found that there was no adequate anatomical description for the amazing structures making this behavior possible. So, I used a combination of functionality experiments, SEM imaging, and biological illustration to provide new anatomical descriptions of the anatomy responsible for the bursal ventilation movement.
DATE: Thursday, April 22, 2021
TIME: 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM
For the live broadcast of the VIRTUAL Thursday Seminar, visit:
https://oregonstate.zoom.us/j/94555731151?pwd=RnJ6eVg0ODdzRUpVc0pQbUlIdUV3dz09
Password: 972587 or call +1-971-247-1195 US Meeting ID: 945 5573 1151
Event Duration: 1 - 3 hours
Date: April 22, 2021
Time: 3:30 pm
End Time: 4:30 pm
Time Zone: PDT