In this article we will discuss about the structure of Ship Worm (Teredo) with the help of a diagram.
1. They are commonly known as “ship worm” and are found in deep holes and burrows in submerged wood of ships and boats.
2. The body is worm-like, elongated and without any distinct head.
3. The mantle is tubular, runs all along the body and opens at the anterior end. It contains one pair of gills.
4. The foot is greatly reduced or almost rudimentary.
5. Shell is represented by two valves located at the anterior end.
6. The shell valves help in burrowing inside the wood.
7. A pair of tubular siphons (exhalent and inherent) are present at the posterior end.
8. Eggs remain in mother’s gills for 3 weeks, till they give rise to free swimming veliger larvae.