This genus is closely allied to Plumatella, from which it is probably derived. The root-like tube from which the zoœcia arise is formed by the great elongation of the basal part of a zoœcium, and the zoaria closely resemble those of P. punctata, for it is not until several zoœcia have been produced that the characteristic mode of growth becomes apparent.
Stolella has only been found in India and is monotypic[[BJ]].
36. Stolella indica, Annandale. ([Plate V], figs. 3, 4.)
Stolella indica, Annandale, Rec. Ind. Mus. iii, p. 279, fig. (1909). Stolella indica, id., ibid. v, p. 53 (1910).
Zoarium. The zoarium is adherent and linear, having neither lateral nor vertical branches.
Zoœcia. The zoœcia are short and slender, erect or nearly so, distinctly emarginate and furrowed. Their ectocyst is soft, colourless and transparent but minutely roughened on the surface.
Polypide. The tentacles number from 30 to 35 and are rather short and stout, sometimes being slightly expanded at the tips. The stomach is comparatively short and abruptly truncated posteriorly.
Statoblasts. Both free and fixed statoblasts are found, and both are variable in form, the latter varying in outline from the circular to the broadly oval. The free statoblasts resemble those of Plumatella punctata, but are sometimes rather more elongate.
Type in the Indian Museum.
