Cirriformia

Characteristics

Cirriformia polychaetes are readily identifiable by their striking morphology. The most prominent feature is the presence of a crown of numerous long, slender tentacles, known as "cirri," extending from the anterior end of the body. These cirri are covered in cilia, which aid in capturing food particles from the surrounding water.

Other distinguishing characteristics include:

• A well-developed prostomium, the first segment of the body, which houses the mouth and sensory organs.
• A segmented body with numerous parapodia, fleshy appendages that aid in locomotion and respiration.
• A well-defined thorax, followed by a segmented abdomen, with distinct body structures in each section.
• A typically long, cylindrical body shape, often encased in a secreted tube.
• A variety of colors, ranging from pale white to vibrant reds and oranges.

Environment

Cirriformia polychaetes are widespread in marine environments globally. They are typically found in benthic habitats, inhabiting a variety of substrates, including sand, mud, rocks, and coral reefs. They often live in tubes constructed from sand grains, mucus, or other materials, which provide them with shelter and protection. Some species are found in deep-sea environments, while others inhabit shallow coastal areas.

Feeding Habits

Cirriformia worms are suspension feeders, relying on their feathery cirri to capture microscopic organisms and detritus from the surrounding water. The cilia lining the cirri create water currents that draw food particles toward the mouth. They are an important part of the marine food web, playing a role in nutrient cycling and energy flow.

References

For more detailed information on Cirriformia, refer to the following websites:

• World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS)
• Wikipedia
• PubMed