Spirobranchus giganteus | Christmas Tree Worm

These feathery structures are modified
prostomial palps (mouth appendages) of Spirobranchus giganteus polychaete worms. These spiral radioles are lined with cilia and are used by the worm for feeding and breathing. The circular structure in the foreground is the operculum, which the worm uses to seal its burrow.

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Filename: spirobranchus-giganteus-christmas-tree-worm-japan-202101-0983.tif
Copyright: Copyright Tony Wu. All rights reserved. No duplication, reproduction or usage without prior written permission.
Image Size: 6598x4399 / 83.4MB; https://www.photoshelter.com/support/license#rm; https://www.tony-wu.com/contact-tony-wu; Polychaete Worm Christmas Tree Worm Animalia Annelida Polychaeta Canalipalpata Serpulidae Spirobranchus giganteus Symbiosis Pacific Japan Okinawa Kumejima
Contained in galleries: Marine Life | Japan

These feathery structures are modified<br />
prostomial palps (mouth appendages) of Spirobranchus giganteus polychaete worms. These spiral radioles are lined with cilia and are used by the worm for feeding and breathing. The circular structure in the foreground is the operculum, which the worm uses to seal its burrow.