@misc{hammel_the_nonhierarchical_2012, 
author={Hammel, J.U., Filatov, M.V., Herzen, J., Beckmann, F., Kaandorp, J.A., Nickel, M.},
title={The non-hierarchical, non-uniformly branching topology of a leuconoid sponge aquiferous system revealed by 3D reconstruction and morphometrics using corrosion casting and X-ray microtomography},
year={2012},
howpublished = {journal article},
doi = {https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1463-6395.2010.00492.x},
abstract = {As sessile filter feeders, sponges rely on a highly efficient fluid transport system. Their physiology depends on efficient water exchange, which is performed by the aquiferous system. This prominent poriferan anatomical character represents a dense network of incurrent and excurrent canals on which we lack detailed 3D models. To overcome this, we investigated the complex leucon-type architecture in the demosponge Tethya wilhelma using corrosion casting, microtomography, and 3D reconstructions. Our integrative qualitative and quantitative approach allowed us to create, for the first time, high-resolution 3D representations of entire canal systems which were used for detailed geometric and morphometric measurements. Canal diameters lack distinct size classes, and bifurcations are non-uniformly ramified. A relatively high number of bifurcations show previously unknown and atypical cross-sectional area ratios. Scaling properties and topological patterns of the canals indicate a more complex overall architecture than previously assumed. As a consequence, it might be more convenient to group canals into functional units rather than hierarchical clusters. Our data qualify the leucon canal system architecture of T. wilhelma as a highly efficient fluid transport system adapted toward minimal flow resistance. Our results and approach are relevant for a better understanding of sponge biology and cultivation techniques.},
note = {Online available at: \url{https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1463-6395.2010.00492.x} (DOI). Hammel, J.; Filatov, M.; Herzen, J.; Beckmann, F.; Kaandorp, J.; Nickel, M.: The non-hierarchical, non-uniformly branching topology of a leuconoid sponge aquiferous system revealed by 3D reconstruction and morphometrics using corrosion casting and X-ray microtomography. Acta Zoologica  (Stockholm). 2012. vol. 93, no. 2, 160-170. DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-6395.2010.00492.x}}