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Which polychaete worms can produce light?

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annelid *The structure of polychaetes.* (Left) Free-moving polychaetes. (A) *Neanthes,* (B) *Nereis.* (Right) Tube-dwelling (sedentary) polychaetes. (C) *Amphitrite,* (D) *Sabella.*

Several species of polychaete worms are capable of bioluminescence, a process in which they produce light chemically.1

Genera known to exhibit this trait include:

Syllis1
Chaetopterus: These worms produce light in their parapodia under nervous control, though the specific purpose of this light is unknown as they reside in tubes that block light transmission.1
Cirratulus1
Terebella1
Polynoe: Light production occurs within the cells of these worms.1
Halosydna: Certain scale worms in this group possess specialized photocells on their lower surfaces that emit light when stimulated.1
Odontosyllis: Light production in this genus is linked to sexual maturity and swarming, which are regulated by lunar cycles. Females produce a bright luminescence to attract males.1

Additionally, some polychaete species utilize light for courtship and species discrimination, with males emitting flashes and females emitting a steady light.2