High up on the ‘arguments against nude diving’ list is the Bobbit worm (Eunice aphroditois). Its common name is allegedly a nod to the infamous John and Lorena Bobbit case in the USA (if you don’t know what we mean then Google is your friend). As an ambush predator, nature saw fit to endow this worm with a beautiful, shimmering sheen…and gigantic pincers.
The Bobbit worm can be found in reefs, rubble and sandy bottoms. The iconic image of them, like the one above, is of just the head poking out from the ground. However, they aren’t always buried since their slim, flexible shape allows them to hide in cracks and crevices. If the four sensitive antennae sense a fish swimming too close then the worm will strike, snapping shut its teeth-like pincers with such force that it’s capable of snapping its prey in two. The Bobbit worm will then retreat to consume its meal in peace.
It can be disconcerting to know what is lurking just below the sand, especially when you know that Bobbit worms grow up to 3 meters long! They mate via spawning which seems sensible – would you risk any part of your body getting close to this thing?
Bobbit worms are an awesome sight to see on one of our night dives in Lembeh which have also featured pleurobranchs, octopus and flamboyant cuttlefish this week! We also welcomed the Dutta family who transferred from our Two Fish Bunaken resort. Amelie came to Two Fish Lembeh as a confident new diver having completed her Open Water training with instructor Maia. Mita also has a shiny new Scuba Diver certification and to round off the family trio Pinak finished his course in Lembeh with instructor Dan. Congratulations to all!
Would you like to join us for diving in the Lembeh Strait? Dis you know that Lembeh is world-famous for it’s rare and unique “critters” which reside here? The abundance of strange and bizarre-looking marine life also makes Lembeh an ideal destination for underwater photographers of all levels.
For more information about diving and staying with us, or about the underwater photography opportunities in Lembeh and our camera facilities, fill in the contact form below and we will get right back to you.