Scientists describe new genus of deep-sea spaghetti worms with suction cups
Australian researchers have announced a new genus of deep-sea segmented marine worms collected during expeditions in 2021 and 2022.
Unique physical characteristics identified
The new genus, named Terebellosuctoria, features unusual sucker-like structures on the underside of its body. These specimens belong to the polychaetes class and possess segmented bodies with appendages called parapodia. Dr Elena Kupriyanova noted that the suction cups make this group distinct from other earthworm relatives.
Collection during research voyages
Museums Victoria led expeditions aboard the CSIRO research vessel Investigator to gather marine samples in 2021 and 2022. The team collected more than 850 worms from seamounts near Christmas Island and the Cocos Keeling Islands. Scientists examined these specimens after realizing they represented an entirely new genus of spaghetti worms.
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