 The giant peanut worm, Sipunculus nudus |
The Phylum Sipuncula comprises worm-like creatures that lack segmentation and have an evertible proboscis. They generally live in mud or sand and mix it by their burrowing actions. They feed on detritus and microscopic organisims. They are called peanut worms because they contract to a peanut-like shape when disturbed. Here the proboscis (upper right) is retracted. |