Worms

Perhaps not the most attractive of creatures, the impact worms have on the marine environment is crucial. Marine worms burrow and filter sediment, stabilising it and therefore contributing to the crystal-clear waters the BMR is known for. They are also an essential food source to larger marine animals and many species of bird.

Most worms found here are segmented worms – known as annelids – and the diversity of this group is beyond belief. Some species are long and flat, and live under rocks and seaweed. Others hide away in tubes made from small shells and grains of sand, and some even make their own fortress out of calcium!