Epipelagic siphonophores off the east coast of South Africa

Abstract

This work represents the first systematic analysis of the common Siphonophora from the Agulhas Current (South-West Indian Ocean). A total of 56 species of siphonophores was collected from a series of three largely epipelagic cruises between Algoa Bay and the Tugela River along the east coast of South Africa. Although no readily identifiable Cystonectae were observed, four families and nine species of Physonectae were collected. Calycophorae were the most common and abundant siphonophores, and five families and 47 species were recorded. Details of locations where each species was collected are given, but descriptions and illustrations are provided only for taxa that represent new records for the region.