Scytodermata is a taxonomic class of marine invertebrates that belong to the phylum Arthropoda. This class is characterized by their elongated bodies, segmented exoskeletons, and jointed appendages. They are commonly referred to as sea spiders or pycnogonids.
Sea spiders are found in various marine habitats worldwide, from shallow coastal waters to deep-sea environments. They have a unique appearance, with an elongated body composed of a head, thorax, and abdomen. Their long, thin legs are covered in fine hairs or spines and are used for locomotion.
One distinctive feature of Scytodermata is their proboscis-like structure called the chelifore, which is located on the cephalon (head). This appendage contains a pair of pincers, which they use for feeding and capturing prey. Sea spiders are primarily carnivorous, feeding on small invertebrates, such as hydroids, bryozoans, and polychaetes.
Scytodermata reproduce sexually, with males transferring sperm to the females through specialized appendages. The females then lay eggs, which are carried on their legs until they hatch into small larvae. The larvae undergo a series of molts and metamorphosis before reaching adulthood.
Although sea spiders are often considered to be small creatures, they can vary in size, with some species reaching up to 70 centimeters in leg span. Despite their name, sea spiders are not true spiders, as they differ significantly in their body structure and lack certain key features found in terrestrial spiders.
In conclusion, Scytodermata is a class of marine arthropods known as sea spiders or pycnogonids. They possess elongated bodies,
