Polychaetes are multi-segmented worms living in all environments in the world's oceans, present from abyssal depths to shallow estuaries and rocky shores, and even free swimming in open water. They are strictly aquatic annelids, but are the most abundant and diverse group of Phylum Annelida.

Where can bristle worm be found?

Bristle worms are soft, segmented worms found along shorelines, mud flats and shallow waters throughout the Chesapeake Bay and its rivers.

Where can annelids be found?

Introduction to Annelida and the Class Polychaeta

They comprise the dominant invertebrates of the deep sea. Fresh or inland water annelids can be found in all kinds of aquatic and semi-aquatic environments, such as lakes, ponds, streams, rivers, groundwater, wet soils, and other wet habitats.