Sicilian Seas Home to a New Threat to Biodiversity: The Fireworm

 The waters of Sicily are now hosting a new threat to biodiversity and human activities: the fireworm, or bearded fireworm (Hermodice carunculata). Known for their voracity and vivid coloration, these organisms are becoming increasingly invasive, aided by the summer heatwaves of recent years that have facilitated their proliferation.

Typically ranging from 20 to 30 centimeters in length, fireworms can also grow up to one meter. They are equipped with bristles that release stinging toxins capable of causing edemas, itching, and even fevers. "Their stings can be particularly painful, especially on thinner areas of skin, causing intense and lasting pain," explains Roberto Simonini from the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, who has studied the toxic substances produced by these worms.

The growing population of fireworms is a concern not only for biologists due to the impacts on native marine fauna, such as corals, but also for fishermen who now have to deal with nets invaded by these predators. Carmelo Salmeri, a local fisherman, reports: "Twenty years ago, it was rare to see a fireworm, but now they have become a constant presence. At night, they feed on the fish caught in the nets, leaving only skeletons by morning."

Originally more prevalent in the Suez Canal, climate change and the warming of Mediterranean waters have pushed the fireworms to extend their habitat. Today, their presence is so significant that the National Institute of Oceanography and Experimental Geophysics (Ogs) has launched an information campaign, in collaboration with the universities of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Catania and Messina, the Ispra, and the Capo Milazzo Marine Protected Area, to raise awareness among the population and tourists about the dangers posed by these organisms.