GAREY, J.R.: The Lesser Known Protostome Taxa

Most biologists are familiar with only a few of the approximately 35 extant animal phyla such as annelids, arthropods, molluscs, echinoderms and chordates. How many are familiar with the more obscure groups such as gnathostomulids, kinorhynchs, priapulids and cycliophorans? Current advances in evolutionary, developmental and ecological studies are now making it apparent that the lesser known animal groups are important subjects of study. The lesser known taxa will be instrumental in testing new ideas about the metazoan radiation using morphological, molecular and developmental approaches. Many lesser known groups are far more important ecologically than is generally known, particularly the phyla represented by mostly meiofaunal (microscopic) species. This symposium will be important in renewing interest in the lesser known animal groups, in encouraging their use in research and teaching, and in promoting the relevance of high-level systematic studies.