In an unusual event, thousands of ten-inch 'penis fish,' formally known as urechis unicinctus, were found washed up on an Argentine beach in Multillar north of Rio Grande after a heavy storm on a Monday afternoon.
Interestingly, MailOnline reported that such incidents are not uncommon in Argentina, as similar sightings of these sea worms have been observed on the southern shores following heavy rains.
Thousands of Penis Fish Wash Ashore in Beaches After Heavy Storm
Earlier this week, locals captured photographs of the phallic creatures, each measuring approximately ten inches, scattered along the shoreline. Notably, news.com.au reported a similar incident in 2019 when thousands of these sea worms washed up on a beach in California.
In Argentina, smaller groups of these creatures have been historically spotted along the shores, and marine life expert Ivan Parr mentioned similar phenomena reported at various locations like Pajaro Dunes, Moss Landing, Bodega Bay, and Princeton Harbor.
Amid the peculiar sightings, beachcombers have come up with imaginative theories, such as linking the presence of these creatures to the wreckage of a bratwurst freighter.
Marine experts refer to them as "fat innkeeper worms," a rather blunt but somewhat merciful name given to these living denizens of the beaches. Additionally, the unusual creatures gained viral attention in 2021 when an Australian marine biologist shared a photo of the penis fish, sparking a series of X-rated replies on social media.
Greatly Sought After Sea Worm in Asia
Despite their rather peculiar appearance, these sea worms are highly valued in Asian countries for their medicinal properties. This demand has led to local fishermen eagerly gathering the 'penis fish' from the beach, considering them as excellent bait, especially for catching seabass.
The New York Post also reported that the penis fish is considered a culinary delight and is commonly found in markets across South Korea, China, and Japan. People enjoy its chewy texture and surprisingly sweet taste, often savoring it with a savory sauce prepared from sesame oil or vinegar combined with gochujang.
While most Asian countries have a tradition of consuming these sea worms raw, certain regions in China prefer a different approach. They dehydrate the 'penis fish' to extend their shelf life, and when desired for consumption, they rehydrate the creatures before frying them.
These unique sea worms are typically harvested from the shallow waters of the China Seas but can also be found in sand tunnels beneath waters worldwide. Japan, too, considers them a delicacy, often serving them as sashimi alongside soy sauce and vinegar.
More About the Penis Fish
The worms, as MailOnline reported, have a tendency to bury themselves in the sand. However, storms and ocean swells can easily dislodge them from their usual course, leading them to wash up on land. These creatures are known for creating U-shaped burrows in the sea bed, providing homes for other animals, which is how they acquired their moniker.
Fossil evidence indicates that these worms have been in existence for an astonishing 300 million years, and a single urechis unicinctus can live up to 25 years. While some humans fish for these worms, they also face natural predators such as larger fish, sharks, seagulls, and otters who seek them as prey.
RELATED ARTICLE: Divers Encounter 26-Feet-Long Giant Sea Worms That's Actually a Colony of Smaller Creatures
Check out more news and information on Animals in Science Times.
