Abstract
In euopisthobranchs, the circulatory system can be described as semi‐open. Propelled by the heart, hemolymph runs via aortas and arteries into larger or smaller anastomosing sinuses that are often subsumed under the term hemocoel. Collecting sinuses transport the hemolymph via gill and kidney veins into the heart. The heart consists of an auricle and a ventricle. The auricular epicardial lining consists of flat myoepithelial cells and podocytes, whereas the ventricle is strongly muscularized by an epicardium consisting of muscle cells and myoepithelial cells. Among euopisthobranchs, the circulatory system was mainly investigated in the Aplysiidae. Hemocyanins that are not bound to cells transport oxygen and different blood cells float in the hemolymph, mainly serving in immune response. Via neuronally controlled aortic and arterial sphincter muscles, larger euopisthobranchs use their circulatory system as hydraulic system to support behavioral activities.
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