What is beach worms?

Here's some information about beach worms:

Beach worms, scientifically known as Australonuphis teres, are marine polychaete worms found in sandy beaches along the coastlines of Australia. They are a popular target for recreational fishers who use them as bait.

• Habitat: These worms reside in the intertidal zone, buried deep in the sand. They create burrows that can extend several meters down.

• Appearance: Beach worms can grow to impressive lengths, sometimes exceeding 2 meters. They are typically pinkish-brown in color and have many segments, each with small bristles called setae.

• Diet: They are scavengers, feeding on decaying organic matter washed up by the tide. They detect food using sensory organs and rapidly emerge from their burrows to grab it.

• Catching%20Beach%20Worms: Anglers catch beach worms by using a piece of bait (such as fish or squid) to lure them out of their burrows. The worm is then carefully grabbed before it retreats back into the sand. It requires skill and practice.

• Ecological%20Role: Beach worms play a role in the beach ecosystem by turning over the sand and consuming organic debris. They are also a food source for shorebirds and other marine animals.