In a landmark discovery, scientists have recently sequenced the DNA of deep-sea marine worms. This breakthrough provides a unique insight into the evolutionary history and ecology of the deep sea, as well as the creatures that live there. The marine worms, known as ‘bobbit worms’, live in the dark depths of the ocean, and can reach lengths of up to 3 meters.

Using this newly-sequenced DNA, researchers were able to identify genetic pathways that are unique to bobbit worms, and compare these with pathways found in other species. This comparison revealed that bobbit worms have evolved a unique set of adaptations that allow them to survive in the harsh deep-sea environment. These adaptations include an enhanced ability to detect prey, as well as specialized organs that allow them to feed on their prey. These findings provide valuable insight into the evolutionary history of the deep sea, and offer new clues into the unique adaptations of bobbit worms.

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source: Phys.org