Prehistoric worms found attached to primitive filter-feeding shellfish that lived 512 million years ago are the ‘earliest known parasites’ on Earth, a study reported. The worms and their unwitting host appeared soon after the so-called ‘Cambrian explosion’ — when all major animal groupings appear in the fossil record. The fossil shellfish — a brachiopod, which … Read more
Tube-like worms found attached to 521 million-year-old mollusks snatched food from the shell, which scientists say this is the first evidence of a parasitic relationship Researchers find thousands of fossilized brachiopods in a Chinese quarry The team discovered the shells once had tube-like worms attached to them Experts say the worms clasped around the shell … Read more
Scientists discovered four specimens of deep-sea worms that have laid hidden more than 3,000 feet below the surface of the Gulf of California. Dubbed ‘Elvis worms’, these creatures are named after the King of Rock’s sequined suits because their backs are lined with shiny, iridescent scales. The team discovered the new species using remotely operated … Read more
Some animals are genetically predisposed to die before reaching old age to benefit the rest of the colony, according to a new British study. Caenorhabditis elegans, a roundworm that shares genetic traits with humans, is programmed to die early to reduce its colony’s demand for food, scientists say. These organisms possess a genetic ‘self-destruct programme’, … Read more
Next time you eat a salad, you won’t be eating it alone. Those are the hair-raising words of a medical student who has released a shocking video showing the bugs that lurk on your vegetables. Martin Kaae Kristiansen, 28, used a powerful microscope to discover what lies on the surface of our fresh food. Mr Kristiansen … Read more