Polychaeta Collection (page 2)

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)

Marine worm fluorescing. Image showing the ability of the polychaete marine worm Lepidonotus squamatus to fluoresce. Polychaetes are a class of annelid (segmented) worms

Feather duster worm. Close-up of the tentacled polychaete (marine annelid) worm Branchiomma arctica. These worms live in tubes made out of sand, and bits of shell and other debris

Amphitrite worm. Close-up of the tentacles of an Amphitrite sp. polychaete (marine annelid) worm. Amphitrites are surface deposit feeders

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)

Trumpet worm. Underside of the marine annelid worm Pectinaria koreni, a type of fanworm. Fanworms live in tubes built out of sand and other bits of debris found on the sea floor

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

Bristle worm. Polychaete marine worm (Brada villosa) with its tentacles retracted. This worm is a surface deposit feeder. It catches falling particles with numerous tentacles (not seen)

Feather Duster Worm (Species unknown) Babbacombe, Torquay, South Devon, UK. (RR)
Alan James / SplashdownDirect

Tubeworm, Sabellastarte sp. Monkey beach, Puerto Galera, Mindoro, Philippines
Andre Seale / SplashdownDirect

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"Exploring the Enigmatic World of Polychaeta: A Kaleidoscope of Marine Wonders" In this captivating image, a dedicated scientist delicately examines a ragworm specimen, unraveling the mysteries hidden within its intricate body structure. The polychaetes, also known as bristle worms, are an incredibly diverse group of marine organisms that inhabit various ecosystems across the globe. Venturing into the vibrant waters off New Caledonia, we encounter a mesmerizing sight - a hard coral adorned with Christmas-tree worms. These Spirobranchus giganteus create stunningly colorful spirals on their calcareous tubes, adding splashes of vivid hues to the underwater landscape. Further east in Rinca, Indonesia lies another enchanting spectacle - a feather duster worm from the Sabellidae family gracefully swaying in the currents. Its delicate tentacles extend like feathery plumes, creating an ethereal display reminiscent of an otherworldly creature. A kaleidoscopic image captures our attention next - showcasing the variegated beauty of Bispira variegata. This species belongs to Sabellidae and showcases nature's artistry through its radiant colors and intricate patterns. Moving towards Atlantic shores, we witness an intriguing behavior exhibited by Eunice fucata or Atlantic Palolo. This fascinating creature emerges from her burrow in search of sustenance before skillfully retreating back into her sandy sanctuary. Journeying westward to Puerto Galera in the Philippines reveals two more breathtaking specimens from Sabellidae family – Protula magnifica and Bispira variegata. Their resplendent forms showcase nature's ability to craft astonishing creatures that captivate our imagination. Delving deeper into historical records brings forth an exquisite illustration by James Sowerby depicting Amphitrite rosea – a sand worm with crimson feelers. This hand-colored engraving reminds us how these creatures have fascinated naturalists for centuries.