Evolution & Systematics

Diphyes bojani were first described by Eschscholtz in 1829.  

As a Cnidarian this species has radial symmetry with polyp and medusa forms.  As a hydrozoa, it forms colonies combining its polyp and medusa forms.  Lika all siphonophores, Diphyes bojani is a pelagic, axial-polyp colony, with highly specialised zooids, called cormidia.  As a calycophore, it lacks a pneumatophore, and has a tiny oil droplet used for buoyance.  All species of diphyes have a single nectophore, with a muscular ring and use jet propulsion for swimming.