There is very little known about the reproductive tendencies and behavior of Nephtys caeca. Unlike most polychaetes, the Sand Worm does not undergo epitoky. Instead the animal releases gametes into the water column where it eventually produces a trochophore larvae. Development of offspring in N. caeca takes a relatively long time because settlement of the trochophore may take up to several weeks. The worm is iteroparous, and may breed several times throughout its lifetime, however, breeding does not necessarily take place every year. It is expected, although not certain, that the trochophore exhibits predatory behavior and may feed on the veliger larvae of mollusks. These animals generally spawn in the summer months; between early May and the middle of July. The animal can live for up to six years. N. caeca demonstrates powerful regenerative capabilities. The animal can regenerate tentacles and heads that have been removed by predators.

Back to N. caeca Home