Leptomedusae

cnidarian suborder

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Last updated

June 30, 2026

Quick Summary

Leptomedusae are a suborder of Hydrozoa, a class within the phylum Cnidaria. These marine invertebrates are characterized by their hydranths and reproductive zooids, which are protected by a theca. The medusae of Leptomedusae have gonads located on their radial canals.12

Cnidarians are radially symmetrical animals with a simple body plan, featuring an inner endoderm and outer ectoderm separated by mesoglea. They exist in either polyp or medusa forms, or both. Leptomedusae are found in shallow marine waters.2

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cnidarian
Annotated classification
Suborder Leptomedusae Medusae saucer-shaped, but lacking in many species. Gonads on radial canals. Sensory structures usually statocysts. Hydroids with hydrothecae (condition known as calyptoblastic). All shallow marine waters. Suborder Limnomedusae Small medusae with gonads on stomach walls or radial canals. Polyps solitary or colonial, commonly with…
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Suborder Leptomedusae Medusae saucer-shaped, but lacking in many species. Gonads on radial canals. Sensory structures usually statocysts. Hydroids with hydrothecae (condition known as calyptoblastic). All shallow marine waters. Suborder Limnomedusae Small medusae with gonads on stomach walls or radial canals. Polyps solitary or colonial, commonly with…
Read More