Post by Brian SmithPost by Melanie SandsPost by Melanie SandsIt looks really gross - and alive!
http://www.facebook.com/ext/share.php?sid=122007066578&h=UVqEe&u=xgpK...
Melanie
Wrong link - this is the one...
http://youtu.be/TcKpx2DxGwY
It's the third most viewed YouTube video this month, that's what it is.
Well, they say it's tubifex worms forming a cyst.
Wikipedia says:
Tubifex tubifex, also called the sludge worm, or sewage worm, is a
species of tubificid segmented worm that inhabits the sediments of
lakes and rivers on several continents. Tubifex probably includes
several species, but distinguishing between them is difficult because
the reproductive organs, commonly used in species identification, are
resorbed after mating, and because the external characteristics of the
worm vary with changes in salinity. These worms ingest sediments,
selectively digest bacteria, and absorb molecules through the body
wall.
The worms can survive with little oxygen by waving hemoglobin rich
tail-ends to exploit all available oxygen. They can also survive in
areas heavily polluted with organic matter that almost no other
species can endure. By forming a protective cyst and lowering its
metabolic rate, T. tubifex can survive drought and food shortage.
Encystment may also function in the dispersal of the worm.
Uses
Ecologically, the worms are important as a source of food for leeches,
crustaceans, insects, and fish. Tubifex are sold as fish-food in both
live and freeze-dried, pelletised forms. While the worms are
relatively easy to culture, they can take up to a month before they
can be harvested. Although they are high in protein, they are not
recommended for human consumption due to a high salt content.
Now who would want to eat something like that?
Melanie