Phyllochaetopterus [Phyllochaetopterus]

Description

Phyllochaetopterus belongs to the family Chaetopteridae, encompassing a variety of polychaete worms found in marine environments. These creatures are distinguished by their construction of complex, often coiled tubes made from sediment and mucus, where they spend their entire lives. The genus is characterized by the presence of leaf-like parapodia, which are specialized limbs used for locomotion and feeding. Phyllochaetopterus species are detritivores, feeding on organic particles they collect from the surrounding water with their ciliated grooves. They play an essential role in the marine food web, acting as a link between the detrital material and higher trophic levels.

Species

Atlantic Tube Worm [Phyllochaetopterus limicolus]

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Taxonomy