Zoonipora

Zoonipora is a genus of bryozoans belonging to the family Electridae. These encrusting bryozoans are found in marine environments and are characterized by their small, rectangular or oval zooids (individual animals within the colony). They are typically found attached to various substrates such as shells, rocks, and algae.

Key characteristics of Zoonipora include the presence of a smooth or slightly granular frontal shield (the exposed part of the zooid's exoskeleton) and a lack of spines or avicularia (specialized defensive zooids). The orifice (the opening through which the lophophore, a feeding structure, is extended) is usually D-shaped.

Zoonipora colonies typically form flat, sheet-like or irregular patches on the substrate they colonize. The genus is of interest to marine biologists and paleontologists due to its widespread distribution and presence in the fossil record. Specific species within the genus can be identified based on subtle differences in zooid morphology and colony structure.