Scientists unveil striking Antarctic scale worm with giant jaws and golden scales

The Antarctic scale worm, known as Eulagisca gigantea, lives over 500 meters deep in the Southern Ocean. It can grow up to 8 inches long and has a striking appearance with golden scales and a retractable mouth featuring sharp jaws. These worms are related to earthworms and leeches, with over 8,000 polychaete species identified. Their bristles may help with movement or defense, but the reason for their golden color remains unclear. The scale worm's jaws can extend to about 3 inches wide, suggesting it is likely an aggressive predator. Its diet is not well understood, but it probably includes other animals or organic debris.