These most likely evolved from homologous branchiae. The branchiae (feeding appendages) in the feathery crown also function as gills. Branchiae colourless, tentacles chocolate brown, laminae white. Their tough cuticle and their distinct branchial region with strongly tufted branchiae are characteristic. The lower is larger and longer, and serves to supply the branchiae with water. Four pairs of appendages are sensory and breathing organs (branchiae) at least in length. Also, "E. vancoveri" generally has red branchiae with white tips. Branchia (pl. branchiae) is the zoologists' name for gills (from Ancient Greek ). There are branchiae present on some of the setigers in the middle or posterior regions. In some species dorsal cirri, branchiae, ventral cirri and chaetae occur, but not in others. African arowanas have air-breathing organs on its branchiae, enabling them to survive in oxygen-depleted water.