Cirratulids [Cirratulidae]

Description

Cirratulidae, or cirratulids, are a family of marine polychaete worms known for their long, slender bodies and numerous hair-like tentacles surrounding their mouths, which they use for feeding. These tentacles are a key adaptation for their surface deposit feeding strategy, allowing them to gather organic particles from the sediment. Cirratulids are common in a wide range of marine habitats, including mudflats, sandy bottoms, and rocky substrates, from the intertidal zone down to the deep sea. They play a crucial role in the benthic food web, both as detritivores and prey for other marine animals.

Genera

Taxonomy