Phytopinniped

Phytopinnepeds are a surface dwelling filter feeding phytozoan. It is named because of the fact that of the ancestral phytozoan swimming appendages, two have moved forward, and the rear most have fused into a paddle, this is vaguely reminiscent of seals of earth. It lived about 470 million years ago.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Phytopinnipeds retain the ovoid body and forward tendrils of cecilia, but it has modified the swimming appendages into pared stabilizers and a single swimming fluke. It also has a tall leaf like structure on its back used as the primary photosynthetic structure. The forward tendrils are a filter feeding apparatus, stiff bristles extend medially and when plankton are caught on them they are digested externally for extra nutrients, minerals, and vitamins. The ventral surface is studded with sharp barbs, each of which sits bellow a pouch full of toxic chemicals to deter predators who may attack from bellow. There are also anterior paired eyespots.

Genetics and Reproduction

Phytopinnipeds have a haplodiploid life cycle. The most conspicuous ones are those described here and are the diploid phase. They expel spores from a ventral gonopore which grow into haploid organisms that greatly resemble the basal phytozoans, with no leaf, and mutliple inneficient propulsion appendages. These only live a short while and live primarily to meet another such haploid creature, use their sensory tendrils to transfer isogamous gametes between them, and then die. each meeting can create tens of thousands of fertilized spores which will grow into haploid adults, starting as phytoplankton, and the lucky ones growing into large (for the time) phytozoans who primarily inhabit the deep waters where predators are less common and there is less chance of being beached.

Dietary Needs and Habits

While most of their energy is derived from photosynthesis, phytopinnipeds depend on filter feeding for vital vitamins and minerals.

Biological Cycle

During the day phytopinnepeds are mostly inactive, only turning to keep the broad face of their "leaf" facing the sun. During the night they begin actively swimming to catch plankton on their bristles.

Additional Information

Geographic Origin and Distribution

World-wide in open deep water.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

The eyespots of Phytopinnipeds are simple and do little more than regulate the circadian rhythm of the creature and allow it to face the sun for optimal photosynthesis.

EXTINCT

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• Cecilia

Genetic Descendants

• Phytocetacean

Scientific Name

Viridiabestia natans

Origin/Ancestry

Phytozoa

Lifespan

10 local years

Average Height

30.5 cm / 12"

Average Length

20 cm / 8"