These animals are unique in that they contain a lot of copper without being poisoned. These larvae progress from tiny pale opaque worms to the larger red larvae of 3 to 10 centimeters in length or longer over a period as short as 2–3 weeks in optimum conditions. The first stage in many forms of bloodworm is a zooplanktonic stage followed by the benthic instar where the familiar segmented red larvae develop protected by silk tubes made in the bottom silt. With enlarged parapodia, they swim to the surface of the water where both sexes release gametes, and then die. Reproduction occurs in midsummer, when the warmer water temperature and lunar cycle among other factors triggers sexually mature worms to transform into a non-feeding stage called the epitoke. They are preyed on by other worms, bottom-feeding fish, crustacea, and gulls. The jaws are connected to glands that supply venom which they use to kill their prey, and their bite is painful even to a human. They feed by extending a large proboscis that bears four hollow jaws. Bloodworms can grow up to 35 centimetres (14 in) in length.īloodworms are carnivorous. At the 'head', bloodworms have four small antennae and small fleshy projections called parapodia running down their bodies. This is the origin of the name 'bloodworm'. Anatomy īloodworms have a creamy pink color, as their pale skin allows their red body fluids that contain haemoglobin to show through. common bloodworms) can grow up to 35 cm (14 in) in length.Īlthough both are visually similar and commonly used as fishing bait, bloodworms are biologically distinct from Lugworms. They are typically found on the bottom of shallow marine waters, and some species (e.g. The genus Glycera is a group of polychaetes (bristle worms) commonly known as bloodworms. JSTOR ( April 2018) ( Learn how and when to remove this template message).Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. This article needs additional citations for verification.

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