Story: Peripatus

Peripatus body

Peripatus body

Peripatus have a highly sensitive body to locate prey. Their skin is covered in tiny bumps, many of which have fine, sensory bristles. Their antennae have chemically responsive tips, which detect whether something is likely to be food. Glands (blue) produce slime, which is shot out of the head to trap prey. Their gut (green) can digest liquids and solids. A tubular heart (purple) extends almost the entire length of the body.

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Te Ara - The Encyclopedia of New Zealand
Artwork by Bruce Mahalski

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How to cite this page:

Paddy Ryan, 'Peripatus - Walking worms', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/diagram/13259/peripatus-body (accessed 1 May 2024)

Story by Paddy Ryan, published 24 Sep 2007