Nephtyidae
Family of annelids
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Nephtyidae is a family of polychaete worms.[1] They are commonly referred to as catworms.[2]
| Nephtyidae | |
|---|---|
| |
| Nephtys hombergii | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Annelida |
| Clade: | Pleistoannelida |
| Subclass: | Errantia |
| Order: | Phyllodocida |
| Family: | Nephtyidae |
| Genera | |
| |
Characteristics
Nephtyidae are pale, clearly segmented polychaetes with a small pentagonal prostomium with two pairs of small antennae. Their segments are little differentiated and have a rectangular cross-section.[3]
Nephtyids are active predators, with a strong muscular proboscis, armed with two well developed jaws.[4]
They can dig relatively fast through sandy sediments. They can also swim with sinuous movements.[5]
