Amphiporus

{{Short description|Genus of ribbon worms}}

{{Automatic taxobox

|image = Gusano de mar (Amphiporus lactifloreus), Parque natural de la Arrábida, Portugal, 2020-07-21, DD 81.jpg

|image_caption = Amphiporus lactifloreus

|taxon = Amphiporus

|authority = Ehrenberg, 1831

}}

Amphiporus is a genus of marine ribbon worms belonging to the phylum Nemertea and class Enopla. These worms are typically found in coastal habitats, often hiding under rocks or burrowed in sand and mud. Members of this genus are known for their elongated, soft, and unsegmented bodies, and they can range from a few centimeters to several inches in length. A distinctive feature of Amphiporus species is their eversible proboscis, which is armed with a sharp stylet used to capture and immobilize prey such as small crustaceans and worms. Many species display striking color patterns, often with bands or stripes, which can help in identification. One commonly studied species, Amphiporus lactifloreus, is notable for its pale body with white markings and is frequently found along European coastlines. As active predators, these worms play a role in the marine food web, and their simple yet specialized anatomy makes them interesting subjects in invertebrate biology and evolutionary research.