Balanoglossida

/ˌbælənoʊˈɡlɑːsɪdə/ noun

Definition

A class of small, worm-like marine animals that live on the ocean floor and have a distinctive proboscis (trunk-like structure).

Etymology

From Greek 'balanos' (acorn) plus 'glossa' (tongue), referring to the acorn-shaped proboscis these creatures possess. The scientific classification name captures their distinctive feeding organ.

Kelly Says

Acorn worms are bizarre creatures that live in ocean mud—they're neither worms nor related to actual worms, and they're more closely related to humans than to most sea creatures, which blows people's minds when they learn it.

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