Definition
Pogonophora was a former phylum of deep-sea tube worms, now classified within the Annelida (segmented worms). These worms are characterized by their long, slender bodies enclosed in chitinous tubes. They lack a digestive system and rely on symbiotic bacteria for nutrition. They inhabit deep-sea hydrothermal vents and cold seeps. They are now considered a specialized group of annelids. They represent an adaptation to extreme environments. 🪱