Absence of toxin-producing parapodial glands in amphinomid polychaetes (fireworms)

Amphinomid polychaetes (fireworms) have been responsible for 'bristleworm stingings' and their large setae are reputed to be filled with toxin. The setae and parapodia of Eurythoe complanata, Chloeia flava and Pherecardia striata were examined using histological and scanning electron microscope techniques. No evidence was found for hypothesised toxin-producing glands communicating with the parapodial setae. Setae were hollow, but empty. It is suggested that these polychaetes are urticating rather than toxic.