Dorvilleidae are mainly small polychaetes. They are about 10-20mm long with well developed appendages and parapodia.

  Dorvilleidae are commonly abundant in shallow habitats, but sometimes are also found in deep waters. They are seen to creep slowly over the sediment surface and under loose stones or among dead shells. They are probably carnivores.

Whole segment

Prostomium

   Prostomium is rounded. 

   2 palps and 2 antennae; have joints on antennae; presence or absence of a nuchal papilla. 

   With or without eyes. Different species vary with 1 or 2 pairs of eyes.

   Mandibles usually dentate. Maxillae consist of 2 or 4 rows of numerous minute toothed plates.   

Parapodia and Setae

   Parapodia uniramous, neuropodia well developed with a large setigerous lobe and a ventral cirrus.

   Setae are mostly capillaries, some are forked. Inferior setae with falcigerous blade.

Sub-biramous parapodia