Phylum Nemertea - Ribbon Worms

The ribbon worm are cylindrical to somewhat flattened, highly contractile, soft-bodied, unsegmented worms. Most of them are small, but a few attain considerable size and may grow in excess of 20 ft. (6 m). Usually they are very slender and brightly colored. These animals are secretive, burrowing in sand and living in algal clumps or mats or in oyster shells. Some ribbon worms have an unusual anterior proboscis equipped with a sharp spine that is used to capture prey. In some species this also injects a slightly toxic secretion that may cause swelling and temporary pain. Nemertines have ual reproduction; they may also reproduce aually by fragmentation. The worms break easily when handled, and the separte parts may regenerate lost parts and form new complete individuals. Ribbon worms are very common in the sea, dwelling from the shore to the greatest depth of the ocean trenches. Most require microscopic examination for identification; however, a few are recognizable by their size and color.

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Photo of Monte at Pirates Week Festivale 2008

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Web site first created 14 March, 1996