Serpulidae

Serpulidae is a family of marine polychaete worms, commonly known as tubeworms or serpulids. These sessile worms construct calcareous tubes, which serve as their protective homes and provide attachment to various substrates. They are found in a wide range of marine environments, from the intertidal zone to the deep sea, and play a significant role in marine ecosystems.

Delicate Tube Worm – Filogranella elatensis

Sea Frost – Salmacina huxleyi

Spirobranchus aloni

Red-Spotted Horseshoe – Protula tubularia

Characteristics

Serpulidae are characterized by their distinctive tubular dwellings, which are often adorned with intricate ornamentation. The tubes are typically constructed of calcium carbonate, secreted by specialized cells in the worm's body. These tubes can be straight, curved, or coiled, depending on the species and the environment. Serpulids possess a crown of tentacles, called a radiole or tentacular crown, which extends from the opening of the tube. The radioles are covered in cilia, which create currents to bring food particles towards the mouth. Serpulids also have a unique operculum, a specialized structure that closes the tube opening to protect the worm from predators or environmental threats.

Environments

Serpulids are found in diverse marine habitats, including:

  • Rocky shores
  • Coral reefs
  • Seagrass beds
  • Deep-sea vents

They prefer hard substrates to which they can attach their tubes, often forming dense colonies.

References