Neomeniomorpha

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The solenogastres (less often referred to as Neomeniomorpha), common name solenogasters, are a subclass of worm-like, small, shell-less molluscs (Aplacophora), the other subclass being the Caudofoveata (Chaetodermomorpha).

The most recent literature, and recent molecular evidence however consider the Aplacophora to be polyphyletic, and therefore these taxonomists divide Solenogastres and Caudofoveata into separate classes (e.g. Todt et al 2008).

In contrast to all other molluscan classes, the Aplacophora have no shell, and are instead covered by aragonitic sclerites (calcareous spicules), which can be solid or hollow. Some species of Aplacophora have a radula, while in others it is secondarily lost. The salivary glands are very elaborate, and are an important character for taxonomy. Next to the mouth they have a unique sense organ, the vestibulum.

Solenogastres (Neomeniomorpha) feed mainly on Cnidarians.

The solenogastres do not have true ctenidia, although their gill-like structures resemble them.^[1]

References

• Todt, C., Okusu, A., Schander, C. & Schwabe, E. 2009. Solenogastres, Caudofoveata and Polyplacophora. In Ponder, W. & Lindberg D. (Eds). Phylogeny and Evolution of the Mollusca. University of California Press 2008. ISBN 978-0-520-25092-5.

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