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Species Description:
Nemertopsis bivittata is an armed (stylet-bearing) nemertean that
achieves an adult size of approximately 15 cm (6 inches). Body color is
generally brown to olive, with a single white stripe mid-dorsally. There
are 4 eyespots on the head. This predatory worm is common in mussel beds
where it typically feeds on crustaceans and perhaps, other worms.
II. HABITAT AND
DISTRIBUTION
IRL Distribution:
This species is known to occur from Ft.
Pierce Inlet south to Miami.
III. LIFE HISTORY AND POPULATION BIOLOGY
Age, Size, Lifespan:
Typical adult size of Nemertopsis bivittata is 9 cm.
Abundance:
Adults of this species are considered
common in the Indian River Lagoon.
Reproduction:
Reproductive seasonality for Nemertopsis
bivittata typically begins in March and probably ends in May. N.
bivittata is gonochoristic with external outcross fertilization.
Embryology:
N. bivittata has direct development.
IV. PHYSICAL TOLERANCES
V. COMMUNITY ECOLOGY
Trophic Mode:
Larval Nemertopsis bivittata are possibly both
lecithotrophic and planktotrophic.
Predatory juveniles and adults of this species probably feed on crustaceans and
perhaps vermetids.
Habitat:
This species is found primarily in the intertidal zone.
VI. SPECIAL STATUS
Special Status:
None.
Economic Importance:
None.
Report by: J. Dineen,
Smithsonian Marine Station
with thanks to L. Newman
Submit additional information, photos or comments to:
irl_webmaster@si.edu
Page last updated: July 25, 2001
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