On the biology of the polychaeteGlycera alba, especially its burrowing and feeding

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Abstract
Immature individuals of G. alba are predators waiting for prey while resting in their burrows. These are constructed of tubes serving different purposes. The species performs two types of burrowing movements, viz. proboscideal and parapodial-peristaltic burrowing. Chemical stimuli were found to be insufficient to evoke feeding behaviour in the worm. Observations show that receptors in the prostomial-peristomial region perceive pressure waves emitted by the prey and thus aid in prey detection and finding. Whether or not feeding behaviour can be induced in Glycera depends on the state of stimulation of other receptor systems. The spectrum of prey species is very broad predominantly consisting of unprotected invertebrates which move on or in the surface layer of the sediment. Feeding rate in nature seems to be half of maximum feeding, or less. Experimental data on growth indicate that G. alba has a potential for fast growth and very high growth efficiency, combined with very low maintenance requirements. The functional significance of the pygidium is discussed.