A strange deep-sea worm found in the frigid waters near Antarctica has captivated the internet, and it’s easy to see why. With its shimmering golden bristles, oval-shaped body, and a terrifying, tooth-filled mouth, this creature looks like something from a sci-fi horror movie.

Meet Eulagisca gigantea—Antarctica’s Golden Predator

This unusual marine worm, scientifically known as Eulagisca gigantea, belongs to the polychaete family—commonly referred to as bristle worms due to their spiky exteriors. While its striking appearance recently went viral on social media, Eulagisca gigantea has been lurking in the Southern Ocean near Antarctica for a long time.

A Closer Look at This Deep-Sea Oddity

Growing up to 8 inches in length, this eerie worm has a unique feature—a retractable throat, known as a pharynx, which extends outward when it feeds. Hidden within this extendable section are sharp teeth, giving the worm a fearsome reputation as a predator. According to the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, the worm’s throat can stretch up to 2 inches to snatch prey or scavenge for food.

Its metallic golden bristles may serve multiple functions, from aiding in swimming to providing defense or helping it crawl along the ocean floor. However, despite its captivating appearance, much about this species remains a mystery. Since its first identification in 1939, scientists have conducted limited research on its behavior and biology, according to the World Register of Marine Species.

The Wonders of the Deep Sea

Polychaete worms, the family to which Eulagisca gigantea belongs, are among the most diverse marine creatures. These worms inhabit a vast range of environments—from shallow coral reefs to extreme hydrothermal vents—and come in countless shapes, sizes, and colors. The Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) reports that there are over 8,000 known species of polychaete worms, but researchers estimate that the actual number could be much higher.

A 2016 study published in Royal Society Open Science used DNA analysis to suggest that the true diversity of marine worms may be double what is currently recognized. While they may appear alien to human eyes, these creatures play essential roles in ocean ecosystems and offer valuable insights into the mysteries of deep-sea life.

Viral Sensation

A recent Facebook post featuring Eulagisca gigantea showcased a specimen collected from depths of 1,706 to 2,198 feet in the Antarctic Ocean. The image, highlighting the worm’s terrifying jaws and shimmering golden bristles, quickly gained traction online, fascinating and horrifying viewers in equal measure.

Though its alien-like features may be unsettling, deep-sea organisms like Eulagisca gigantea are crucial for understanding marine biodiversity. As scientists continue to explore the vast and largely uncharted depths of our oceans, discoveries like this serve as a thrilling reminder of the strange and extraordinary life forms thriving beneath the waves.