The bizarre Antarctic worm Eulagisca gigantea has recently gone viral online for its sci-fi–like appearance. About 8 inches long, it has shimmering golden bristles and a retractable, tooth-lined throat used to hunt or scavenge smaller marine creatures.
Discovered in 1939, this polychaete worm is just one of over 8,000 known species, with many more likely undiscovered. Its bristles may aid in swimming, crawling, or defense.
A recent viral photo highlighted its metallic bristles and fearsome jaws, capturing public fascination. Despite its strange looks, Eulagisca gigantea plays an important role in ocean ecosystems and helps scientists study deep-sea biodiversity.