Species of annelid
Loimia medusa, commonly known as the spaghetti worm or medusa worm,[1] is an aquatic species of annelid belonging to the family Terebellidae.[2]
Description
Loimia medusa has long bluish white feeding tentacles that give the appearance of spaghetti noodles under any kind of rubble or rocks.[3] Under those rocks, it has a body that is surrounded by a tube consisting of bits of shell and gravel,[4] creating a tube that has a tough membranous lining with segments. The body can grow to be about 12 in (300 mm) long, while the tentacles can grow to twice that length.[5]
Distribution and habitat
Loimia medusa prefers tropical oceans, such as the Indo-Pacific and the Western Central Atlantic,[6] including reefs off of the Hawaiian Islands.[7]
Its habitat includes spaces such as tidepools, brackish waters, and bays that consist of rubble.[6] They can also be found in sand and coral reefs in the deeper waters across the Hawaiian islands.[8]
Cultural significance
In Hawai'i, Loimia medusa is known as the Kauna'oa. During the Old Hawai'i times, this invertebrate was used for medicinal purposes.[4]
References
