Diurodrilus | |
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Scientific classification | |
Kingdom: | |
Superphylum: | |
Phylum: | |
Family: | Diurodrilidae Kristensen & Niilonen, 1982
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Genus: | Diurodrilus Remane, 1925
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Type species | |
Diurodrilus minimus Remane, 1925
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Species | |
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Diurodrilus is a genus of tiny marine animals that has traditionally been assigned to the annelid worms, although this affinity is not certain. With a maximum length of 0.45 mm, it has an unusual morphology with many traits not found in other annelids, including a ventral creeping foot.[1][2] Analyses of DNA have both refuted and supported placement within the annelids,[2][3] with the unusual morphology perhaps due to evolutionary progenesis, in which organisms develop sexual maturity while retaining the larval traits of their ancestors.[3]
The following species are recognised:[2][4]