Gattya
Gattya is a genus of polychaete worms in the family Terebellidae. These worms are commonly known as “sand-mason worms” or “tubeworms” due to their characteristic habit of constructing tubes from sand grains, which they use for shelter and protection. The genus is characterized by its long, slender body, often adorned with numerous tentacles and bristles (setae) which aid in feeding and locomotion. These worms are widely distributed in marine environments across the globe, with most species found in shallow to moderate depths, typically in sandy or muddy bottoms.
Common Names
Gattya species are often referred to as "sand-mason worms" or "tubeworms".
Characteristics
The most defining characteristic of Gattya worms is their ability to construct intricate tubes from sand grains. They achieve this by using their long, slender bodies and numerous tentacles to manipulate and cement individual sand particles together. These tubes are often irregularly shaped and can vary in length and diameter depending on the species and environmental conditions.
Gattya species possess a distinct segmented body, with each segment typically bearing a pair of parapodia, which are fleshy appendages equipped with setae (bristles). These setae play a vital role in locomotion and anchoring the worms within their tubes. The body of Gattya worms is also characterized by the presence of a distinct head region, which houses a pair of well-developed palps and numerous tentacles. These appendages are used for sensing food particles and for filter feeding.
Environments
Gattya worms are typically found in marine environments, often inhabiting sandy or muddy bottoms in shallow to moderate depths. They can also be found in intertidal zones and estuaries, adapting to a range of salinity and temperature conditions. They are often found in association with other marine organisms, including crustaceans, molluscs, and other polychaetes.