A new species of lugworm: Arenicola defodiens sp. nov.

Abstract

A new species of lugworm Arenicola defodiens sp. nov. (common name ‘black lug’ or ‘runnydown’) is described from 148 specimens taken from intertidal sands around South Wales. Comparisons are made with the well-known and generally more common lugworm Arenicola marina (L.). To aid in diagnosis, a table illustrating differences in the genetics, ecology and morphology is also provided.