Larval Worm Aggregation (Biotic Group)

Component: Biotic

Unique Identifier: 460

Biotic Setting	Planktonic Biota
Biotic Group	Zooplankton
Biotic Subclass	Worm Meroplankton
Biotic Group	Larval Worm Aggregation
Biotic Community	Nereid Larval Aggregation Nemeretean Larval Aggregation Polychaete Larval Aggregation

Description

Definition

Water parcels in which larvae of various worm taxa aggregate and are the dominant form of zooplankton. Many worm larvae are difficult to identify. The initial larval stage of annelids (the rounded, ciliated trochophore stage) is very similar to the trochophore stage of larval mollusks. Annelid larvae will continue growth by adding segments, however, and become more worm-like.