käelihaste

The term käelihaste refers to a small marine creature belonging to the family Eunicidae within the order Annelida. Commonly found in temperate shallow waters along the North Atlantic coastline, the species is distinguished by its elongated body, segmented body plan and pronounced anterior appendages named palps. The name derives from the Old Norse words “kæla” meaning “nail” and “haste” meaning “rapid,” a reference to the creature’s quick, claw‑like movements.

Morphologically, käelihaste possesses 35 to 40 body segments, each armed with a set of chaetae that aid in locomotion and burrowing. The head region contains five pairs of prostomium appendages that are used for feeding and sensory function. The posterior portions have ventrally directed parapodia that create a rotational movement allowing the animal to navigate through mud and sand. Adult individuals typically reach lengths of 12 to 18 centimeters and display a soft yellowish to grayish coloration, which aids in camouflage against the substrate.

Ecologically, käelihaste is an omnivorous detritivore that feeds on small mollusks, crustacean eggs and organic debris. Reproduction occurs via external fertilization, with planktonic larvae that settle after a few weeks of pelagic drift. The species contributes to sediment turnover and nutrient cycling within its coastal ecosystem. While not of commercial importance, it is occasionally harvested by local fishers for scientific study due to its unique reproductive biology. Conservation status is currently of least concern, but ongoing monitoring of marine pollution and habitat disturbance remains recommended to ensure population stability.