Teuthidodrilus, or the squidworm, is a recently discovered species of marine polychaete worm. In 2007, marine biologists discovered this interesting sea worm in the western part of the Celebes Sea, a deep oceanic basin in the depths of the Philippines that is part of the Coral Triangle. This marine worm has intrigued scientists everywhere due to its unique body structure and its only very recent discovery.
The squidworm is measured to be nearly four inches long, quite sizable for a marine worm. It is named for its head that looks like it’s covered in squid-like tentacles. This worm has an abundance of various appendages, some of which are even longer than its body. Eight arms are used for breathing, and two long, coiled appendages are used for feeding. Six pairs of sensory organs emerge from its head to provide the squidworm with the ability to taste and smell, and propulsion paddles are present down the length of its body to allow for upright swimming.
As a newly recognized species, not much is known yet about this type of marine worm, but scientists believe that its numerous appendages and odd body structure have a deeper meaning for this creature. Because of its strange body characteristics, the squidworm may be a transitional form of worm, evolving as it exists in two diverse habitats. The squidworm lives in a sort of in-between area of the ocean, making it subject to conditions that are not typically the first choice of marine worms. It does not exist near the light-filled surface of the water, nor does it inhabit the dark, rocky seafloor.
The worm uses its two coiled appendages on its head to feed on plankton in the ocean water. It does not seem to be a predator, as it has only been noted to eat plankton and sinking particles of microscopic plants and animals. Multiple sets of observations have reported a profusion of this worm in the Celebes Sea, suggesting that it is quite common. The new type of marine worm is a captivating example of the continued discoveries of new species and of the vast wonders that this world holds.
