Moss animals of the Dutch part of the North Sea and coastal waters of the Netherlands (Bryozoa)

Bryozoa or moss animals constitute a conspicuous and species-rich component of hardsubstrate benthic communities in marine and estuarine habitats. To gain insight into the biodiversity of these habitats, knowledge of bryozoan species is indispensable. Since the last comprehensive publication on Dutch species in 2004 much new information has become available. Particularly from the Dutch part of the Continental Flat of the North Sea, the largest natural area of the Netherlands, many new records have been collected. Other reasons to present an updated review are changes in nomenclature, the arrival of some exotic species and identification issues.