Scientists ID Tiny Prehistoric Sea Worm With 50 Head Spines

Scientists have found the fossils of a small, faceless prehistoric sea worm with 50 jaw-like spines growing out of its head. Current Biology journal found and identified the fossils from the Capinatator praetermissus, which was reportedly living on Earth 541 million years ago. The worm was only about 4 inches long, and it primarily ate smaller plankton. “The spines are like miniature hooks, although more gently curved. They were stiff rather than flexible,” said Derek Briggs, of Yale University. “It’s hard to say why there are so many spines in the fossil example—but presumably thus armed it was a successful predator.”