Nemertine (Noun)
Meaning
Soft unsegmented marine worms that have a threadlike proboscis and the ability to stretch and contract.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- Nemertines are characterized by the presence of a distinctive threadlike proboscis used for capturing prey.
- Some nemertine species have been found in sediments with very low oxygen levels and are thought to be among the most ancient animal lineages.
- The proboscis of the nemertine is coiled in the rhynchocoel when not in use and can rapidly emerge and retract.
- Nemertines have traditionally been considered enigmatic creatures due to their simple yet atypical body organization.
- Scientists are still working to unravel the mysteries of the genetic makeup and evolutionary development of nemertines.