Sluys and Ball, 1989
Overview
Habitus: The preserved animal was about 2.5 mm long and 0.6 mm wide. Front and hind end were rounded. The dorsal surface was brownish. The highly curled animal did not allow more detailed observations of its external appearance.
Alimentary System
The short pharynx is about one-eighth of the body length and is situated in the posterior third of the animal. The inner circular muscle layer of the pharynx is much thicker than the outer one. The mouth opening is situated at the hind end of the pharyngeal pocket.
The long anterior gut trunk extends anterior to the eyes, but it is not known whether it gives off pre-ocellar diverticula. It is not known either whether communications exist between the two posterior intestinal rami.
Reproductive System
The paired, rounded ovaries are situated at about half-way the distance between the brain and the root of the pharynx. Between the ovaries and the root of the pharynx there are two large testicular follicles on either side of the body. The follicles occupy the entire space between dorsal and ventral body surface.
Because of the poor state of the sections not much could be seen of the copulatory apparatus. The only distinguishable structure was a strongly muscularized, rounded structure, the lumen of which seemed to be lined with glandularized cells. Gland cells were also present dorsally and ventrally of this structure, and also behind it; these glands had the characteristic appearance of shell glands.
Eyes
The number of retinal cells could not be determined; a semi-circular lens is situated in the opening of each pigment cup.
Ecology
The animal was found in a sediment sample of coarse sand, dredged from a depth of 46 m.
Distribution
Bass Strait, 40°00'S 144°20.9'E, Australia.
Material Examined
M.V.: G3441, Bass Strait, 40°00'S 144°20.9'E, Australia, 2.02.1981, sagittal sections on 1 slide.