Nereis virens

annelid

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 1, 2026

Quick Summary

Nereis virens is a species of rag worm, which belongs to the phylum Annelida. Rag worms are marine invertebrates, though a few species inhabit freshwater. They are characterized by segmented bodies, retractable jaws, and bristles called setae used for locomotion.

Nereis virens can grow up to 80 cm (31.5 inches) and is found on both sides of the North Atlantic. These worms typically have brown, red, or green coloration. Their heads feature two short tentacles and four eyes. Rag worms primarily feed on other worms and small sea creatures. During mating season, they release sperm or eggs into the water, and fertilization results in a larval stage called a trochophore. Some species are used by fishermen as bait.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

2 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

rag worm
N. virens, which may be as long as 80 cm (31.5 inches), occurs on both sides of the North Atlantic. Some rag worms are commonly used by fishermen for bait.
Read More
N. virens, which may be as long as 80 cm (31.5 inches), occurs on both sides of the North Atlantic. Some rag worms are commonly used by fishermen for bait.
Read More