A slime worm, specifically referencing Myxicola infundibulum, is a marine worm that lives inside a transparent, protective tube.
Understanding Myxicola infundibulum
Myxicola infundibulum is a unique type of worm often referred to as a slime worm due to its body being largely enclosed within a thick, clear tube. The majority of its body remains buried in the seabed, offering protection and stability. This worm is characterized by the following:
Key Features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Size | Can grow up to 20 centimetres long, but most of the body is contained within its tube. |
| Tube | Lives primarily within a thick, transparent tube that is buried in the seabed. This tube serves as a protective home for the worm. |
| Head | The head protrudes from the tube, and is surrounded by a unique crown of interlaced tentacles. |
| Tentacles | These tentacles form a funnel-like structure around the head, measuring approximately three centimetres across. |
How it Lives:
- Protection: The tube offers crucial protection from predators and the harsh environment.
- Feeding: The funnel of tentacles assists in filter-feeding, capturing small food particles from the surrounding water.
- Location: These worms are found living on the seabed where they bury their tubes.
Summary
In short, a slime worm, exemplified by Myxicola infundibulum, is a tube-dwelling marine worm with a distinct funnel-shaped crown of tentacles protruding from its tube. These tentacles are used for feeding and their tube protects their body.
