Bobbit worms

Some naturalists are more familiar with tropical, coral reef species of Bobbit worms (Family Eunicidae), such as the palolo worm (Palola viridis)—famous not only for its spectacular spawning events but also as a gourmet delight for some indigenous people of the South Pacific islands. The largest of the Bobbit worms, usually found in warmer climates, attain lengths up to 6 m (20 ft). They are valued as bait but equally feared for the bites they inflict with their huge jaws! No doubt this is the reason why the term “Bobbit worm” has recently replaced the rather bland “mudworm” as a descriptive common name for the family.