Shipworm - Wikipedia The shipworms, also called teredo worms or simply teredo (from Ancient Greek τερηδών (terēdṓn) 'wood-worm', via Latin terēdō), are marine bivalve molluscs in the family Teredinidae, a group of saltwater clams with long, soft, naked bodies
SHIPWORMS AND OTHER MARINE BORERS - National Oceanic and Atmospheric . . . Description --The shipworm is unusual in its relation to its habitat Few instances can be cited wherein marine organisms are dependent upon organic products from the land, as is the rule with this molluscan wood borer Parts of its body have become greatly
Shipworm | Marine Bivalve, Tubeworm, Boring Clam | Britannica Shipworm, any of the approximately 65 species of marine bivalve mollusks of the family Teredidae (Teredinidae) Shipworms are common in most oceans and seas and are important because of the destruction they cause in wooden ship hulls, wharves, and other submerged wooden structures
Teredo navalis - Smithsonian Institution Teredo navalis is commonly known as the Naval Shipworm Shipworms are highly modified bivalves, adapted for boring into wood Its native region is unknown, but it is spread widely around the globe It is considered to be cryptogenic throughout most of its range
Exploring Shipworms: Physiology, Ecology, and Maritime Impact Discover the fascinating world of shipworms, their unique biology, ecological roles, and historical significance in maritime environments Shipworms, often mistaken for worms due to their elongated bodies, are actually a type of clam that have intrigued scientists and maritime enthusiasts alike
The Havoc Caused by Shipworms Remains a Mystery After Thousands of . . . Shipworms are voracious munchers of wood For thousands of years, these 'termites of the sea' have been sinking ships and collapsing wharves with their insatiable appetites Today, we still don't know how they devour so much woody plant material as fast as they do
Shipworm | Whats in a Name? - Harvard University There are many species of shipworm but one of the most widespread is Teredo navalis The genus name, Teredo, comes originally from a Greek word that means “to rub,” while the species name navalis comes from navis, which is Latin for “ship ”
How the Lowly Shipworm Changed History Goodell adds that most shipworm shells are no bigger than a human fingernail, even as the bodies of the largest species grow up to six feet long As larvae, shipworms are free-swimming But once