Thinking of visiting a Texas beach this summer? Beware of ‘bearded fireworms’ – centipede-like creatures crawling around Mustang Island near Corpus Christi. The ‘fire’ part of their name is practically true – they’re infamous for a fiery sting, resulting in severe pain for about three hours.
Usually, bearded fireworms appear in the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Mediterranean Sea. Their arrival on Texas beaches is new.
These unique creatures were discovered on large logs covered in gooseneck barnacles, possibly feeding on them. Bearded fireworms feast on corals, anemones, and small crustaceans. They can grow to up to 35 centimetres, though most you’ll spot are 5 to 10 in length.
If you do step on one’s infamous quills, apply adhesive tape to remove the spine, then rubbing alcohol to reduce the pain.
Finding these unusual creatures was of little surprise to researchers, thanks to climate change and the warming temperatures on our beaches.
Have you been to any Texas beaches this summer? Maybe you’ve run into these new guests to our beach. Let us know your findings on our social media pages and be sure to stay tuned to the ‘What’s Happening’ page on www.radioalegria1240am.com!
