Alitta

Alitta is a genus of marine segmented worms, commonly known as polychaetes, belonging to the family Alittiidae. These worms are found in various marine environments worldwide, inhabiting sandy or muddy bottoms, often in shallow waters. They are characterized by their segmented bodies, bearing numerous pairs of parapodia, which are fleshy appendages used for locomotion and respiration.

The genus Alitta includes several species, with Alitta virens being one of the most well-known. This species is often found along the Atlantic coast of North America and is a popular bait for recreational fishing. Alitta species are detritivores, meaning they feed on organic matter found in sediment. They play a role in bioturbation, the process by which organisms living in soil and sediment mix and alter the soil structure.

Reproduction in Alitta typically involves external fertilization, with individuals releasing sperm and eggs into the water column. The larvae are planktonic and drift in the currents before settling to the seabed to metamorphose into juvenile worms. These worms can be important components of the benthic ecosystem, serving as a food source for various fish and other marine animals. Their presence and abundance can be indicators of the health of the marine environment.