Goal of the project was an anatomical and geographical report on Solenogastres (worm-shaped marine molluscs of
only some millimetres in length, lacking a shell) from the North-Atlantic deep-sea, their taxonomic classification
and a faunistic comparison with the Scandinavian coastal region. Collections from several cruises
(CHALLENGER, BIOGAS, POLYGAS, NORBI) were examined.
The samples were sorted out. Slides of the spicules (calcareous scales or needles of the body cover), that serve as a
diagnostic character, were prepared for subsequent sorting and classification. Histological serial sections of about
100 specimens out of 80 samples were prepared for examination, reconstruction and classification of the animals.
Within ongoing studies the necessity of careful examination of type material and research of older literature
became evident. Type material of several museums was examined and compared to the present specimens.
Up to date results:
1. Biodiversity, i.e. number of species is more than 20, higher than expected.
2. Most of the species are new to science; only one species could be identified as previously described.
3. Some species can clearly be classified to a described genus, but show differences in particular characters, which
justifies the description of new species. Character combination of many other new species does not fit into the
present system; new genera have to be described.
4. None of the species could be found in deep-sea areas and in coastal areas as well.