Phyllochaetopterus [Phyllochaetopterus]

Description

Phyllochaetopterus represents a genus of tube-dwelling polychaetes in the family Chaetopteridae, characterized by their complex tube structures often found embedded in soft marine sediments. These polychaetes have a segmented body with a clear division of labor among the segments. Notable features include the presence of leaf-like parapodia on some segments, aiding in respiration and possibly in feeding. They typically feed by generating a current to draw plankton and organic particles into their tubes, filtering out food items with their specialized appendages.

Species

Mediterranean tube worm [Phyllochaetopterus prolifica]

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Taxonomy