Hesionids are mainly characterised by their enlarged and articulated dorsal cirri on the anterior segments, provided with cirrophores. They are commonly found in shallow waters, and while most species are free-living, others are commensals or parasites on echinoderms.

Characteristics

Hesionids are mainly characterised by their enlarged and articulated dorsal cirri with cirrophores on the anterior segments. The cirri of subsequent segments are inserted into the parapodia directly, or with just vestigial cirrophores. They show a facial tubercle and the proboscis have papillae but lacks jaws. 

Recommended citation

Nygren A. Hesionidae Grube, 1850. www.artsdatabanken.no/Pages/313955. Downloaded <year-month-day>.