Family Eunicidae "rock worms"

Distribution: Pulau Ayer Chawan, Pulau Semakau, Pulau Tekong, Kallang Basin , Sungei Buloh, Singapore River, Sungei Ponggol
Eunicidae preserved specimen
Eunicidae with 5 antennae

The eunicids sometimes known as "rock worms" are mainly omnivores and live largely on detritus. They may be scavengers. They attached themselves firmly to the corals and rasp away at the coralline rock. They are found mostly in rocky habitats, burrowed in sand or mud. Some species build tubes while others burrow into limestone. They are either errant or tubicolous frequently inhabiting coral reefs, sands and muddy substrates. Species found in Singapore include:

  • Eunice antennata
  • Eunice aphroditois
  • Eunice coccinioides
  • Eunice grubei
  • Eunice hirschi
  • Eunice lucei
  • Eunice nesiotes
  • Euniphysa aculeata
  • Marphysa disjuncta
  • Marphysa macintoshi
  • Marphysa mossambica
  • Lysidice collaris



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