Annelids, particularly polychaetes, are found in all reef habitats, usually in great abundance and diversity. Most species have a pelagobenthic life cycle that includes a microscopic planktonic larval stage. These larvae, along with specialised reproductive forms (e.g. epitokes), can be found in Heron Island Reef waters throughout the year. Polychaetes have a wide range of life histories, modes of feeding and reproducing, including living within and on other animals.
reef zones of the southwest end of Heron Island Reef
(Image provided by Digital Globe Inc and Biophysical Remote Sensing Group, The University of Queensland)