Worms
of the phylum Nemertea are long, slender and at least slightly flattened.
They are usually very fragile and will break apart when handled or stretched.
Nemertean worms have a complete digestive tract which includes a mouth
and an anus. Their circulatory system is well developed and consists of
definite blood vessels. They have a simple reproductive system. Nemerteans
have a long sharp-tipped proboscis which is used in capturing prey. The
proboscis is contained in a fluid-filled cavity above the mouth. It is
sometimes comes out through its own pore at the tip of the head, but in
some groups it emerges through the mouth even though it originates in
a place unrelated to the digestive system. The proboscis is either sticky
with mucus or is equipped with a venom gland and thorn- like stylets through
which the toxic substance is injected.
Worms
of the phylum Nemertea are long, slender and at least slightly flattened.
They are usually very fragile and will break apart when handled or stretched.
Nemertean worms have a complete digestive tract which includes a mouth
and an anus. Their circulatory system is well developed and consists of
definite blood vessels. They have a simple reproductive system. Nemerteans
have a long sharp-tipped proboscis which is used in capturing prey. The
proboscis is contained in a fluid-filled cavity above the mouth. It is
sometimes comes out through its own pore at the tip of the head, but in
some groups it emerges through the mouth even though it originates in
a place unrelated to the digestive system. The proboscis is either sticky
with mucus or is equipped with a venom gland and thorn- like stylets through
which the toxic substance is injected.