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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 07 August 2017
In earlier communications we have called attention to the existence of very tight spiral formations in the nuclei of some galaxies, particularly of the early type barred spirals, proposing a mechanism for their formation (Pişmiş and Moreno 1984). These kiloparsec-scale structures are loosely termed “rings” but their overall morphology suggests strongly that the image is a tightly wound double spiral usually delineated by knots of emitting material, “hot-spots”. A striking characteristic of these spirals is their very high luminosity compared to the outer regions of the galaxy. 26 galaxies with “nuclear” spirals are listed by Buta, thesis. A systematic search with short exposure high resolution imagery may reveal many more nuclear spirals. NGC 4736 (Sb) though not a barred spiral has a well defined inner spiral delineated by very luminous H II regions.