Explanantion:
The article talks about the presence of a carnivorous marine worm called “vermocane” in the Mediterranean Sea, particularly in areas of southern Italy like Sicily, Calabria, Puglia, and Campania. The increase in the worm’s population is thought to be due to the warming of the waters. The vermocane, also known as the fireworm, can be found on rocky seabeds, in sandy areas, and in seagrass meadows. It has bright colors and can grow to be 20-30 centimeters long.
The researchers from the National Institute of Oceanography and Experimental Geophysics (Ogs) emphasize the need for caution when encountering vermocanes, as their bodies are covered in stinging spines that contain toxins. Touching them can cause pain, burning sensations, swelling, itching, and numbness. To monitor and track the spread of vermocanes, various entities have launched campaigns and developed tools like the AvvistApp citizen science app. The Worms Out project, involving several universities and organizations, aims to collect ecological and biological data on vermocanes and find solutions to manage their presence and proliferation.
The project was initiated in response to concerns raised by local fishermen in Milazzo, who were finding vermocanes in their fishing nets. The researchers have conducted monitoring campaigns in the Gulf of Milazzo to gather information on the species distribution and feeding habits. Laboratory analyses are being carried out to assess the impact on the food chain, and the results will be shared with the scientific community. Future plans include field testing and refining mitigation measures.
Il vermocane nel mare siciliano, per l’Istituto di Oceanografia «nessun allarme per i bagnanti, ma attenti a non toccarlo»
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