Nephtyidae
Appearance
Nephtyidae | |
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Nephtys hombergii | |
Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | |
Phylum: | |
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Family: | Nephtyidae
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Genera | |
Aglaophamus |
Nephtyidae is a taxonomic family of polychaete worms. They are commonly referred to as catworms.
Characteristics
Nephtyidae are pale, clearly segmented polychaetes with a small pentagonal prostomium with two pairs of small antennae. Their segments are little differentiated and have a rectangular cross-section.
Nephtyids are active predators, with a strong muscular proboscis, armed with two well developed jaws.
They can dig relatively fast through sandy sediments. They can also swim with sinuous movements.
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