According to multiple news reports, an invasive species called hammerhead worm is emerging in Georgia, detected multiple times across the state, including more than 100 cases seen in metro Atlanta alone.
This terrifying snake-like creature got its name from the hammerhead because of its crescent moon-like head shape, it lives on land, is golden brown with a stripe in the middle of its back. It can grow to almost a foot long and is also venomous due to toxins secreted through the skin. CNN cited a study from Wyoming State University that said this poison is thought to be the same as the deadly nerve agent of puffer fish.
Another strange feature of this worm is that its mouth is not on the head but in the middle of the abdomen. Even more macabre, this species is known to regenerate into two separate creatures if they are cut in half.
This animal is a carnivore, specializing in eating earthworms and invertebrates lying in the soil, but it itself has few predators so it is also difficult to control. Fortunately, this worm is not considered a threat to crops.
Agricultural expert James Murphy of the University of Georgia confirmed the species was recently seen across the state, while social media iNaturalist reported more than 100 sightings in Atlanta.
Murphy warns anyone who encounters the worms to exercise caution because tetrodotoxin can be dangerous if absorbed through the skin. Many experts say this species has been in the US for nearly a century, first appearing in the Northeast states. This species is thought to have migrated to the United States through cropland.
Murphy attributed the recent sightings of the species to climate change and migration. “I don’t think there’s a need for a warning,” Murphy said. I just encourage people to continue reporting their sightings to the authorities so we can follow up. “
