JOURNAL ARTICLE

Why do these curious sea spiders bury themselves in the sand?

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2025. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Pennisi, Elizabeth 3 of 3

Abstract

Sea spiders in the Southern Ocean, particularly Nymphon australe, have been observed burying themselves in the sand with their legs waving above. Researchers have discovered that these creatures may be seeking hidden microbes for food, as DNA analysis of their stomach contents suggests. The behavior of these sea spiders, which are not true spiders but belong to a group of arthropods called Pycnogonida, remains largely mysterious, with scientists debating the reasons behind their unique actions. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2025/01, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Social Sciences and Humanities
  • Publication Date:2025
  • Accession Number:182327777
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