Alitta
Alitta is a genus of marine polychaete worms belonging to the family Spionidae. These worms are commonly known as “sandworms” or “mudworms” due to their burrowing habits in soft sediments. They play a significant role in marine ecosystems, serving as food for various predators and contributing to sediment turnover.
Characteristics
Alitta species are characterized by their elongated, segmented bodies, which can range in length from a few centimeters to over 20 centimeters. They possess a distinct head with two pairs of palps, two pairs of antennae, and a pair of well-developed eyes. The body is covered with numerous bristle-like structures called setae, which aid in locomotion and burrowing.
Environments
Alitta worms are found in a variety of marine habitats, including intertidal zones, estuaries, and shallow coastal waters. They are particularly abundant in soft sediments such as sand, mud, and silt.
Distribution
The genus Alitta has a worldwide distribution, with species found in all major oceans. They are particularly common in temperate and tropical regions.
Species
Several species of Alitta have been identified, including:
- Alitta virens (formerly Nereis virens)
- Alitta succinea
- Alitta alveolata
- Alitta johnsoni
- Alitta brandti
Ecology
Alitta worms are deposit feeders, meaning they obtain their food by consuming sediment and extracting organic matter. They play an important role in sediment reworking, which helps to improve water quality and oxygen availability.
References
For further information on the genus Alitta, please refer to the following sources: