Golfingia
Golfingia is a genus of marine worms belonging to the phylum Sipuncula, commonly known as peanut worms. These unsegmented worms are characterized by a distinctive retractable proboscis, which they use for feeding. They are found in a variety of marine habitats around the world, from shallow intertidal zones to deep-sea environments.
Common Names
Golfingia species are commonly known as peanut worms due to their resemblance to peanuts when retracted into their burrows.
Characteristics
Members of the genus Golfingia exhibit the following key characteristics:
- Retractible proboscis: A long, extensible proboscis used for feeding, which can be retracted into the body.
- Unsegmented body: Unlike segmented worms like earthworms, peanut worms have a smooth, unsegmented body.
- U-shaped gut: Their digestive system is shaped like a U, with the mouth and anus located close together at one end of the body.
- Burrowing behavior: Golfingia worms typically live in burrows, which they create in soft sediments.
Environment
Golfingia species are found in various marine environments, including:
- Intertidal zones: These worms can tolerate the fluctuating conditions of the intertidal, often burrowing in sand or mud.
- Subtidal zones: They are also common in deeper subtidal zones, where they may inhabit various sediment types.
- Deep sea environments: Some Golfingia species have been found in deep-sea trenches and other extreme environments.