Deep Sea Worms

Deep-sea worms are a type of annelid worm that live in the deep sea. There are over 3,000 known species of deep-sea worm, which fall into two main groups: polychaetes and sipunculans. Deep-sea worms are found throughout the world’s oceans, at depths of up to 11 kilometers (7 miles).

Most deep-sea worms are less than 10 centimeters (4 inches) in length, although some species can grow to over 2 meters (6 feet). The vast majority of deep-sea worms are scavengers or filter feeders, feeding on organic matter that falls to the seafloor. A few species are predators or parasites.

Deep-sea worms have a simple body plan, consisting of a head with sensory organs, followed by a segmented trunk. The trunk is typically muscular and may be covered in bristles (setae). Many deep-sea worms also have large jaws for grinding up food.

The blood of deep-sea worms contains hemoglobin, which helps them withstand the high pressures found at great depths. Most species also have special pigment cells called chromatophores, which help them absorb light at depth and camouflage themselves from predators.