Parapodia Collection

Sandworm (Nereis pellagica). Sandworms are marine annelid worms that burrow in wet sand and mud using parapodia (un jointed limb-like outgrowths) and setae (bristles) for locomotion

King ragworm C015 / 7450
King ragworm (Alitta virens). This is a marine polychaete, a class of annelid (segmented) worms. Each segment has a pair of fleshy un-jointed limb-like appendages (parapodia)

King ragworm C015 / 7523
King ragworm (Alitta virens). This is a marine polychaete, a class of annelid (segmented) worms. Each segment has a pair of fleshy un-jointed limb-like appendages (parapodia)

King ragworm C015 / 7495
King ragworm (Alitta virens). This is a marine polychaete, a class of annelid (segmented) worms. Each segment has a pair of fleshy un-jointed limb-like appendages (parapodia)

King ragworm C015 / 7421
King ragworm (Alitta virens). This is a marine polychaete, a class of annelid (segmented) worms. Each segment has a pair of fleshy un-jointed limb-like appendages (parapodia)

King ragworm C015 / 7481
King ragworm (Alitta virens). This is a marine polychaete, a class of annelid (segmented) worms. Each segment has a pair of fleshy un-jointed limb-like appendages (parapodia)

Bristle worm head, SEM
Bristle worm head, coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). Bristle worms (polychaeta) are free-swimming marine annelids (segmented worms)

Fireworm bristles, SEM
Fireworm bristles. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a fireworms bristles (setae). Fireworms (family Amphinomidae) are polychaete (meaning many-bristled) worms

Fireworm, SEM
Fireworm. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a fireworm (family Amphinomidae). This is a polychaete (meaning many-bristled) and segmented worm

Polychaete marine worms (Pseudopotamilla reniformis). Polychaetes are a class of annelid (segmented) worms. Each segment has a pair of fleshy un-jointed limb-like appendages (parapodia)

Sea butterflies (Limacina helicina). Sea butterflies are swimming predatory marine sea snails. They have two wing-like outgrowths (parapodia) derived from their foot

King ragworm
Kingragworm (Alitta virens). This is a marine polychaete, a class of annelid (segmented) worms. Each segment has a pair of fleshy un-jointed limb-like appendages (parapodia)

Polychaete marine worm on a sponge
Polychaete marine worm (Lepidonotus squamatus) on a natural sponge. Polychaetes are a class of annelid (segmented) worms. Each segment has a pair of fleshy limb-like appendages (parapodia)

Sandworm body. Close-up of the body of a sandworm (Nereis pellagica), showing its parapodia (un jointed limb-like outgrowths) and setae (bristles)

Polychaete marine worm (Phyllodoce groenlandica). Polychaetes are a class of annelid (segmented) worms. Each segment has a pair of fleshy un-jointed limb-like appendages (parapodia)

Sea butterfly (Limacina helicina). Sea butterflies are swimming predatory marine sea snails. They have two wing-like outgrowths (parapodia, left and right) derived from their foot

Bobbit worm with its jaws extended. Bobbit worms (Eunice aphroditois) are aggressive predatory polychaete worms that use their huge jaws (grey) to snatch at passing fish

Lugworm. Close-up of the head of a lugworm (Arenicola marina). Lugworms are a marine species of annelid worm that have parapodia (hair-like outgrowths) and gills

Lugworm body. Close-up of a section of the body of a lugworm (Arenicola marina). Lugworms are a marine species of annelid worm that have parapodia (hair-like outgrowths) and gills

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"Discovering the Fascinating World of Parapodia: Unveiling the Beauty and Adaptability of Marine Worms" Diving into the depths of our oceans, we encounter a mesmerizing creature known as the parapodia. These remarkable appendages are found in various species, including the enigmatic sandworm and the majestic King ragworm C015/7450. The King ragworm C015/7523 showcases its vibrant colors as it gracefully glides through underwater currents. Its parapodia serve multiple functions, aiding in locomotion and respiration while also providing protection against predators. Intriguingly, each species possesses unique characteristics that make them stand out. The King ragworm C015/7495 exhibits intricate patterns on its parapodia, resembling an artist's masterpiece painted with delicate strokes. Meanwhile, the King ragworm C015/7421 displays robust parapodia adorned with bristles that act as sensory organs to detect changes in their environment. These bristle worm heads reveal a complex network of nerves responsible for sensing prey or potential threats nearby. Examining these creatures under a scanning electron microscope (SEM) reveals astonishing details. Fireworm bristles captured by SEM resemble tiny needles ready to defend against any intruder who dares challenge their territory. The SEM images further unveil an enchanting world within these marine worms' bodies. Delicate structures like sea butterflies flutter among intricately designed parapodia, showcasing nature's artistry at its finest. As we delve deeper into understanding polychaete marine worms' lives, we uncover their vital role in maintaining ecological balance beneath our ocean's surface. Their presence contributes to nutrient cycling and sediment stabilization while serving as a crucial food source for other marine organisms. Let us marvel at these extraordinary beings inhabiting our seas—their resilience and adaptability reminding us of nature's boundless wonders. Through studying parapodia and embracing their beauty, we gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate web of life that exists within our oceans.