Nemertea

Nemertea is a phylum of invertebrate animals also known as "ribbon worms" or "proboscis worms". The majority of species are marine, but there are also freshwater and terrestrial species. They are most famous for their eversible proboscis, which they use to capture prey.

Anatomy and Physiology

Nemerteans are typically long, slender worms, ranging in size from a few millimeters to several meters. They are bilaterally symmetrical and unsegmented. The most distinctive feature of nemerteans is their proboscis, a long, muscular tube that can be rapidly everted (turned inside out and extended) to capture prey.

Classification

The phylum Nemertea is divided into two main classes: Anopla and Enopla. Anopla includes those species with an unarmed proboscis, while Enopla includes those with a proboscis armed with a stylet.

Ecology and Behavior

Nemerteans are carnivorous, feeding on other invertebrates. They are also known for their remarkable regenerative abilities, and can regenerate complete individuals from fragments of their body.

See Also

• Annelida
• Mollusca
• Echinodermata

References

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