pipeworm

Pipeworms are a common name used for a variety of sessile marine invertebrates that construct and inhabit tubes. These tubes, often made of secreted mucus, sand, and shell fragments, can resemble pipes, hence the name. The animals themselves are typically worm-like in appearance, with segmented bodies. They belong to several different phyla, including polychaete worms (Annelida) and vestimentiferan worms (Annelida).

The lifestyle of pipeworms is characterized by their sedentary nature. They anchor themselves to the substrate, such as rocks, coral, or even other organisms, and extend feeding appendages from their tubes. These appendages vary greatly depending on the species, but often involve feathery structures that filter food particles from the water column. Some pipeworms are suspension feeders, while others may have symbiotic relationships with bacteria that provide them with nutrients.

Pipeworms play a role in marine ecosystems by providing habitat for other small organisms and by contributing to the stabilization of sediments. Their tubes can become encrusted with algae and invertebrates, creating complex microhabitats. They are found in a wide range of marine environments, from shallow coastal waters to the deep sea. The specific appearance and habitat of pipeworms can differ significantly, leading to variations in their common names.