Abstract
The morphology and partial cytology of a group of bacteria-related organisms from the guts of surgeonfish are described. These gigantobacteria symbionts are encountered in the guts of various species of this fish family throughout the Indo-Pacific region and the Red Sea. They have been tentatively grouped and placed in a “family”, Epulopiscidae, according to the first species described, Epulopiscium fishelsoni Montgomery and Pollak, 1988. In addition to a morphological comparison between the various forms from different species of surgeonfish, suggestions are presented with regard to their possible morphological diversification during evolutionary and host-species specificity.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
Received: 10 June 1998 / Accepted: 29 October 1998
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Fishelson, L. Polymorphism in gigantobacterial symbionts in the guts of surgeonfish (Acanthuridae: Teleostei). Marine Biology 133, 345–351 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1007/s002270050473
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s002270050473