Why is the connection to Phylum Annelida not strongly supported in Wiwaxia fossils?
Answer
Clear metameric segmentation is not strongly demonstrated
While some researchers considered a link between *Wiwaxia* and the segmented worms of Phylum Annelida, this connection is weakened by the absence of a key defining feature of annelids: clear metameric segmentation. Segmentation, where the body plan is clearly divided into repeating units, is evident in other fauna from the same formation, such as *Canadia*. In contrast, *Wiwaxia* fossils do not exhibit this organized repetition strongly enough to warrant firm placement within Annelida, despite potentially vague similarities in overall body shape.
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