Description: The body of this worm is uniform in width with elytra (scales) that overlap considerably. The elytra completely cover the back of the animal. They are covered in tubercles and papillae and have a strong fringe around the outer edge. Overall colouration can vary, but it is frequently a pale yellow with a dark spot in the centre of the elytra. The larger tubercles on the elytra have a brownish colour and can form a mosaic pattern.

Habitat: Under stones or old shells from the shallow sublittoral to considerable depth.

Distribution: Recorded from all around Britain and Ireland but rare on NE coast of Britain.

Similar Species: There are many scale worms found in Britain and Ireland that could be easily confused. Careful inspection may be required for a definite identification to species level. Specialist identification guides and microscopic examination may be required.

Key Identification Features:

• Elytra overlap considerably and completely cover the back.
• Covered in tubercles and papillae.
• Strong fringe around outer edge.
• Often a pale yellow with dark spot in centre of elytra.

Distribution Map from NBN: Lepidonotus squamatus at National Biodiversity Network mapping facility, data for UK.

iNaturalist: Lepidonotus squamatus at iNaturalist World Species Observations database.

GBIF data for Lepidonotus squamatus

WoRMS: Lepidonotus squamatus at World Register of Marine Species. Accepted name: Lepidonotus squamatus (Linnaeus, 1758). AphiaID: 130801.

Classification: Biota; Animalia; Annelida; Polychaeta; Errantia; Phyllodocida; Aphroditiformia; Polynoidae; Lepidonotinae; Lepidonotus