Kingdom Animalia Scientific name Swima Higher classification Acrocirridae Order Canalipalpata | Family Acrocirridae Phylum Annelida Rank Genus | |
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Similar Acrocirridae, Nephila komaci, Chondrocladia turbiformis, Dracula fish, Danionella | ||
Swima worms
Swima is a genus of polychaete worm that lives in the deep ocean. This deep ocean pelagic (free-swimming) annelid has modified bioluminescent gills that can be cast off from an individual. These discarded gills somewhat resemble green "bombs" that remain illuminated for several seconds after they have been discarded. It is thought that this is a defensive mechanism rather than reproductive, as it is seen in both mature and juvenile individuals. Animals of the Swima genus are closely related to the recently discovered Teuthidodrilus genus, another pelagic cirratuliform of the bathyal zone.
Contents
Swima worm
Discovery
The first specimens of the Swima genus were discovered in the deep trenches of Monterey Bay, off the coast of California.
Taxonomy
There are currently three species recognised within the Swima genus, the type species S. bombiviridis, S. fulgida and S. tawitawiensis.
- S. bombiviridis (also known as Green Bomber Worm or Bombardier Worm) Osborn et al., 2009, from Monterey Bay, California
- S. fulgida, Shining Bomber
- S. tawitawiensis (also known as Tawi-Tawi Bomber) Osborn, Haddock & Rouse, 2011
Anatomy and physiology
Animals of the Swima genus are characterized by a thick gelatinous sheath, transparent body, simple nuchal organs, a single medial subulate branchia, and four pair of small segmental branchiae modified as elliptical, bioluminescent sacs.
Etymology
The genus name, Swima, is derived from the Latin, referring to the animal's ability to swim.