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Nerillidae
Description
Nerillids measure about 0.3-2 mm in length; most species
have nine segments, but as few as seven may be present. The prostomium is fused to the peristomium and
bears three slender smooth or articulated antennae and a pair
of clavate, lateral to ventro-lateral palps; both antennae and
palps may be absent. Generally, all segments bear chaetae, but
chaetae may be absent from the first segment. Chaetae are
compound or simple capillaries. Parapodial cirri
are usually present, although they may be absent on some or
all segments. In some species, for example, Nerilla australis,
the cirri of the first segment are much longer than the
following ones. The pygidium usually bears two anal cirri.
The ventral pharynx has intracellular skeletal elements known
as ‘buccal pieces’.
The above description is taken from Paxton (2000).
Identification tips
Recognising the family
Nerillids are interstitial species, with either 3 smooth or articulated antennae and a pair of clavate palps inserted either laterally or ventro-laterally. The body has obvious segmentation and most segments bear chaetae and parapodial cirri.
Distinguishing species
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