General Description

In members of this genus the proboscis is forked, with the terminal branches shorter than the basal part (other spoon worms in this part of Australia have unbranched proboscis). Body up to about 8 cm long.

Biology

Spoon worms were previously classified in their own Phylum: Echiura. However, recent DNA studies have shown that these worms are modified polychaetes with very reduced chaetae and segmentation and they are now grouped in the Phylum Annelida.

Habitat

Under stones, usually in muddy, sheltered habitats.

Soft substrates

Distribution guide

Southern Australia.

Species Group

Worms › Spoon worms

Depth

Shore (0-1 m)
Shallow (1-30 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

8 cm

Diet

Organic matter

Commercial Species

No

Global Dispersal

Native to Australia

Species Code

MoV 1756

Conservation Status

• DSE Advisory List : Not listed
• EPBC Act 1999 : Not listed
• IUCN Red List : Not listed