SAEDNEWS: A small, velvety creature hiding beneath grass roots raced across its 28 pairs of legs in a Brazilian rainforest—only to land directly in the hands of researchers. It has now been identified as a new species of worm.
According to Saed News’ social affairs report, a new species of velvet worm, named Epiperipatus puri, has been identified, based on a study published on October 2 in the journal Pherhyi. Scientists were exploring the Guapiaçu environmental reserve, part of Brazil’s eastern coastal forests, when they accidentally came across this creature. Between 2012 and 2018, six specimens of this species were collected from the same small area within the tropical rainforest.
The worm is described as a tiny creature covered in small protrusions that give its skin a rough texture. Its exterior is dark reddish-brown, patterned with a diamond-like network of black and orange.
Researchers report that these small creatures have between 26 and 28 pairs of legs.
Male specimens possess “inconspicuous” anal glands, consisting of two openings on their backs, which are absent in females.
The species name honors the Puri, an indigenous population in Brazil. The Puri lived in the mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro state, where the specimens were collected.
