In annelids, elytra (/-trə/; from Greek ἔλυτρον "sheath, cover"; sg.: elytron /ˈɛlətrɒn/)[1] are shield-like scales that are attached dorsally, one pair on each of a number of alternating segments and entirely or partly cover the dorsum.[2] Elytra are modified dorsal cirri, and their number, size, location, and ornamentation are important taxonomic characters. The basal part of the elytra is known as the elytrophore; if (as is often the case) elytra are lost their presence is indicated by the elytrophore which is still present and visible.
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/19/Augenerilepidonotus_dictyolepis_elytron_MVF64510.jpg/220px-Augenerilepidonotus_dictyolepis_elytron_MVF64510.jpg)
Annelids possessing elytra are also known as "scale worms". Possession of elytra is characteristic of the annelid suborder Aphroditiformia.[3]
Gallery
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A Eunoe leiotentaculata specimen showing its 15 pairs of elytra.
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Euphione sp. specimen with its highly ornamented elytra.
References
edit- ^ "elytron". Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary.
- ^ Beesley, Pamela L; Glasby, Christopher John; Glasby, Christopher J; Ross, Graham J (2000), Polychaetes & allies : the southern synthesis, CSIRO Publishing, ISBN 978-0-643-06571-0
- ^ Read, Geoffrey B.; Fauchald, Kristian (2020). "The World Polychaeta Database".