Sternaspis scutata

(Ranzani, 1817)

Description:
Body of characteristic shape, short and thick. Epidermis finely but densely papillated.
Prostomium very small, oval. The first segment without chaetae, the following three with a vertical row of spines on each side. The following nine segments without chaetae; the last 5 to 9 segments ventrally with a shield and two trapezoid calcareous plates, marginally with 15-17 bundles finely feathery and smooth capillary chaetae. Gills numerous, inserted just over the pygidium.

Size:
Up to 31 mm for 22 segments.

Colour:
White, gills red.

Habitat:
Unknown.

Distribution:
Probably cosmopolitan.

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