Haloa
Haloa is a genus of marine polychaete worms belonging to the family Terebellidae. These worms are commonly known as “feather duster worms” due to their distinctive feeding appendages, which resemble feathery plumes. Haloa species are widely distributed across the globe, inhabiting various marine environments, from shallow intertidal zones to deeper waters.
Characteristics
Haloa worms are characterized by their elongated, segmented bodies, typically ranging in size from a few centimeters to several inches. Their most prominent feature is their distinctive "feather duster" or "crown" of feeding appendages, called radioles. These radioles are long, slender, and often brightly colored, resembling the plumes of a feather duster. They are covered in cilia, tiny hair-like structures that help the worm to filter food particles from the surrounding water.
In addition to their radioles, Haloa worms also have a pair of long, fleshy tentacles called palps. These palps are used to sense their surroundings and to capture food. The worms also have a pair of parapodia on each segment, which are fleshy lobes that help them to move along the seafloor.
Environments
Haloa worms are found in a variety of marine habitats, including:
- Shallow intertidal zones
- Rocky reefs
- Sandy bottoms
- Deep sea trenches
They are often found attached to hard surfaces, such as rocks, shells, and seaweed. They may also burrow into soft sediments.
References
For further information about Haloa, please refer to these reliable resources: