Marine worms (genus Osedax) colonize cow bones

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Deep-Sea Ecology
• Invertebrate Zoology

Background:

• The genus Osedax, known as bone-eating worms, has been primarily associated with whale carcasses (whale-falls) in deep-sea environments.
• Previous research suggested Osedax species might be specialized feeders on whale bones, limiting their ecological niche.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the colonization and growth potential of Osedax worms on non-whale bone substrates.
• To determine if Osedax species can reproduce on alternative food sources like cow bones.
• To challenge the 'whale-fall specialist' hypothesis for Osedax worms.

Main Methods:

• Deployment of sterilized cow bones at various deep-sea locations (385-2893m) in Monterey Bay, California.
• Collection and examination of colonized cow bones after a specific period.
• Morphological and molecular analyses to identify Osedax species and assess reproductive status.

Main Results:

• Rapid colonization of cow bones by Osedax worms, occurring within two months of deployment.
• Successful growth and reproduction observed, with females producing eggs and hosting dwarf males.
• Identification of six known Osedax species from Monterey Bay on the cow bone substrate.
• Osedax worms exhibited similar colonization rates on cow bones as on whale bones.

Conclusions:

• Osedax worms demonstrate a broader dietary range than previously assumed, readily colonizing and utilizing cow bones.
• The findings challenge the long-held notion of Osedax as exclusive 'whale-fall specialists.'
• This adaptability suggests a more versatile ecological role for Osedax in deep-sea ecosystems, potentially utilizing various large vertebrate carcasses.