Barbed wire worm [Nematonereis antennigera]
Description
Known as the Barbed wire worm, Nematonereis antennigera is a marine worm of small size, generally not exceeding 3 cm in length. The species is characterized by its complex set of appendages, which resemble antennae, hence its name. These appendages are used for sensory purposes and for capturing food. The Barbed wire worm inhabits the intertidal zone of sandy beaches, where it burrows to feed on organic matter. The species is solitary and nocturnal, hiding during the day and emerging at night to feed.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Segmented Worms
Annelida
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Polychaetes
Polychaeta
|
| Order |
Aciculata
Aciculata
|
| Family |
Eunicids
Eunicidae
|
| Genus |
Nematonereis
Nematonereis
|