Red Plume Tubeworm [Lamellibrachia luymesi]
Description
This deep-sea species is known for inhabiting areas near cold seeps in the Gulf of Mexico and off the coast of Costa Rica. The worm forms colonies and reaches lengths of up to 2-3 meters. It has a long lifespan, potentially up to 250 years. Its bright red plumes, which function as gills, are a distinguishing feature.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Segmented Worms
Annelida
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Polychaetes
Polychaeta
|
| Order |
Canalipalpata
Canalipalpata
|
| Family |
Siboglinids
Siboglinidae
|
| Genus |
Lamellibrachia
Lamellibrachia
|