Arenicola brasiliensis, commonly known as the Brazilian lugworm, is a marine polychaete worm belonging to the family Arenicolidae. This species plays a vital role in coastal ecosystems, particularly in sandy substrates, where it contributes to sediment oxygenation and nutrient cycling.
Description & Characteristics
Arenicola brasiliensis is a burrowing worm with a distinctive elongated body, typically reaching a maximum size of 10-15 centimeters. The body is segmented, with each segment bearing numerous bristle-like structures called chaetae that aid in movement and anchoring within the burrow. The anterior end of the worm features a prominent prostomium, which is a small, fleshy lobe used for sensing the environment. The posterior end is equipped with a pair of fleshy palps that assist in respiration.
Habitat and Occurrence
Arenicola brasiliensis is a common inhabitant of sandy intertidal zones, particularly in the lower intertidal and subtidal regions. Its distribution extends along the coastline of Brazil, where it thrives in the warm, tropical waters of the South Atlantic Ocean. This species is particularly abundant in areas with a moderate wave action and a steady supply of organic matter. Arenicola brasiliensis is a key component of these marine ecosystems, playing a significant role in nutrient cycling and sediment turnover.
Taxonomy
Arenicola brasiliensis belongs to the class Polychaeta, a diverse group of segmented worms characterized by the presence of numerous chaetae. It is classified within the family Arenicolidae, a group of burrowing worms known for their distinctive feeding habits and their ecological importance in coastal habitats.
Feeding
Arenicola brasiliensis is a deposit feeder, consuming organic matter and sediment from the surrounding environment. It constructs a U-shaped burrow in the sand, with two openings connected by a central chamber. The worm feeds by drawing in sediment through one opening and expelling waste through the other. This process helps to oxygenate the sediment and create a favorable environment for other marine organisms. Arenicola brasiliensis‘s feeding habits contribute to the overall health and productivity of the marine ecosystem.
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