#pyrosome

“Lonesome Drifter”

“We frequently witness the vertical migration of small creatures that travel and feed on highly attractive lights in water that is approximately 200+ meters deep in blackwater. While I was exploring the area, I came across a pyrosome (an unusual tubular planktonic animal) that was 10cm (4 inches) long. As I examined it carefully, I discovered that an animal was hiding inside it. The creature was floating in mid-water and moving randomly. Luckily, I managed to capture a few shots of it before it drifted away into deeper waters.”

by Dennis Corpuz.

But I raise you pyrosome worm Ruoye.

Like siphonophores, pyrosomes are colonies, made up of hundreds of thousands of clones. Together they create a long Long tube which is open on one end for feeding and closed on the other. These little guys, when bound together, can form enormous structures, far longer than a person, and potentially even 2 meters wide at the opening!

despite looking somewhat eldritch and intimidating, pyrosomes are filter feeders, and described as being very soft! that still hasn't stopped at least one from trapping and therefore causing the demise, of a penguin, who became stuck in the tube and eventually perished. the fact that a trashing penguin couldn't break free from the structure just proves how strong these colonies are.

in less frightening news, they move slowly via constant jet propulsion, in a smoother manner than squid or jellyfish. though Much slower. incredibly fun and interesting guys!