Caudofoveata

Caudofoveata is a small class of the phylum mollusca, also known as Chaetodermomorpha . The class is often combined with Solenogastres and termed Aplacophora . The class first emerged in the Silurian era.

Caudofoveata are small (1-30 mm), primitive deep sea molluscs. They are worm-like, lacking shells or distinct muscular feet; they instead have scales and calcareous spines for movement. They live by burrowing through soft sediment, and feed by lying vertically in the sediment with just the mouth-parts exposed and taking in passing organic detritus. During sexual reproduction, the female produces eggs which are fertilized and brooded, and then the larvae swim freely.

The class has three families: Chaetodermatidae , Limifossoridae and Prochaetodermatidae . There are about 70 known species in these families.