Urechis unicinctus

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Revision as of 21:57, 23 February 2024 by Prab (talk | contribs) (CSV import)
(diff) ← Older revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)

Urechis unicinctus

Urechis unicinctus, also known as the fat innkeeper worm or the penis fish, is a species of marine spoon worm. It is widely recognized for its unique shape and is a common delicacy in East Asian cuisine, particularly in South Korea and Japan.

Taxonomy

Urechis unicinctus belongs to the phylum Annelida, a large group of segmented worms, and the class Echiura, commonly known as spoon worms. The species is the most well-known member of the genus Urechis.

Description

The body of Urechis unicinctus is cylindrical, soft, and pinkish in color. It can grow up to 30 cm in length. The worm is often compared to a human penis, hence the nickname "penis fish".

Habitat and Distribution

Urechis unicinctus is found in the coastal waters of the Pacific Ocean, particularly in East Asia. It prefers muddy sand substrates where it can burrow and create U-shaped burrows.

Diet

The diet of Urechis unicinctus consists mainly of detritus and plankton. The worm feeds by extending a mucus net from its burrow to trap food particles.

Reproduction

Urechis unicinctus reproduces sexually. The female releases eggs into the water, which are then fertilized by the male. The fertilized eggs develop into larvae, which eventually settle on the seafloor and grow into adult worms.

Human Use

Urechis unicinctus is a popular food item in East Asia. In South Korea, it is known as "gaebul" and is often eaten raw with a spicy dipping sauce. In Japan, it is called "namako" and is used in a variety of dishes.

See Also

References

External Links

Stub icon
   This article is a medical stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Ad. Transform your life with W8MD's Budget GLP-1 injections from $75


W8MD weight loss doctors team
W8MD weight loss doctors team

W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:

NYC weight loss doctor appointmentsNYC weight loss doctor appointments

Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.

Linkedin_Shiny_Icon Facebook_Shiny_Icon YouTube_icon_(2011-2013) Google plus


Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.