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Ragworm

The ragworm is highly common on our shores, though rarely seen except by the fishermen that dig them up for bait.

Scientific name

Hediste diversicolor

When to see

January to December

Species information

Statistics

Length: 6-12cm

Conservation status

Common

About

The ragworm is highly common around the UK. It lives in a burrow in muddy seabeds and looks a lot like an underwater millipede. They are the opposite of picky eaters and will feed on just about anything. They spin a mucus net at the entrance to their burrow in which they catch plankton and other small particles. If it's slim pickings, they leave the burrow in search of bigger food - scavenging on whatever is available or hunting out small invertebrates. Ragworms are a favourite food of flatfish and wading birds, including curlew and bar-tailed godwits.

How to identify

Most often hidden in its burrow, though sometimes caught out hunting or hiding under rocks near to its burrow. They are highly segmented and look like a millipede. They are normally pale brown but males are bright green during the breeding season.

Distribution

Found around all UK coasts, particularly common in estuaries.

Did you know?

Ragworms were given their scientific name "diversicolor" as the males change colour during the breeding season, going from a dull brown to bright green.