BioImages: The Virtual Field-Guide (UK)

NEREIDAE (ragworms)

Diagnostic features

Identification is based on the arrangement of the eyes, and the microscopic structure of the chaetae. These are best observed in a dead specimen.

Lab. techniques

In a freshly-killed specimen, the proboscis can be made to extend sufficiently by applying gentle pressure between the fingers or against a glass slide. A second slide on top will hold it in position for photography.

If the specimen has been in alcohol for more than a few minutes, it will be necessary to make an incision and gradually push the proboscis forward from within, or even to dissect it out.

The chaetae require either cutting out a segment or removing a parapodium and mounting on a microscope slide. Take care to keep track of which is the top and bottom of the animal. (The deep groove is ventral).