Creatures with spikes wash up on Texas beach, causing fear among beachgoers.

Beachgoers were cautioned by the Harte Research Institute about the dangerous fireworm.

Creatures with spikes wash up on Texas beach, causing fear among beachgoers.
Creatures with spikes wash up on Texas beach, causing fear among beachgoers.

A bearded, venomous creature has emerged on the beaches of Corpus Christi.

Bristle worms, also known as prickly fireworms, have been found on the Texas Gulf Coast, prompting beachgoers to remain vigilant.

According to FOX Weather, the National Park Services (NPS) characterized the bristles as minute, needle-shaped spikes, each containing venom.

The Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies posted on Facebook: "WARNING!!! Your worst nightmares are coming to life in the form of fireworms!"

"Over the past few days, marine polychaetes, commonly known as bristle worms, have been discovered on large logs. These worms may have been feeding on gooseneck barnacles that were present on the logs."

Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies scientist with fireworm
Jace Tunnell with the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies holds up a fireworm he caught this week in Corpus Christi, Texas. (Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies)

The fireworm's name is nightmarish because of the intense pain caused by its spikes, which lasts for hours.

The bristles contain a neurotoxin mixture to deter predators.

The sting site on your skin can be sensitive for weeks after being stung, according to the institute's Facebook post.

"Each segment of the worm has white bristles that are filled with neurotoxin and break off when touched."

fireworm found in Corpus Christi
Fireworm on a log with gooseneck barnacles. (Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies)

The NPS advises removing a poisonous spike from a fireworm with adhesive tape, as recommended by FOX Weather.

These gnarly creatures can be found in the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico, according to the Harte Research Institute.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit planetchronicle.net/lifestyle.

A variety of corals, anemones, and small crustaceans, including gooseneck barnacles, are consumed by the fireworm.

I would hate to step on one of these. Thank you for continuing to protect us with these important segments!

venom filled fireworm foudn in Texas
The Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies is warning beachgoers about the presence of fireworms on the Corpus Christi beach. (Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies)

Another user stated that they could have lived their entire life without being aware of these things' existence.

Since its inception in 2001, the Harte Research Institute has been dedicated to promoting sustainability and preserving the Gulf of Mexico.

More odd news in Lifestyle

In La Jolla, California, kayakers and snorkelers stumbled upon a deceased oarfish. This species, also known as a "doomsday fish," is extremely rare, with only 20 sightings reported in the state since 1901.

A man from Fort Wayne, Indiana, set a new state fishing record with a spotted gar.

The world's largest spider is the Goliath birdeater, known for its massive size.

by Sydney Borchers

lifestyle

Expanding a skill set: A holiday gift guide for painters and artists

Expanding a skill set: A holiday gift guide for painters and artists

lifestyle
Rural families in Alaska receive Thanksgiving via airdrop from an Alaska native.

Rural families in Alaska receive Thanksgiving via airdrop from an Alaska native.

lifestyle
Cranberry sauce preference: Homemade or canned? The Thanksgiving food debate.

Cranberry sauce preference: Homemade or canned? The Thanksgiving food debate.

lifestyle
Martin Scorsese presents St. Sebastian's tale of unwavering faith and martyrdom on Fox Nation.

Martin Scorsese presents St. Sebastian's tale of unwavering faith and martyrdom on Fox Nation.

lifestyle
Discover the 8 top-rated books of 2024 that you can catch up on in 2025, featuring authors such as Sarah J Maas and Freida McFadden.

Discover the 8 top-rated books of 2024 that you can catch up on in 2025, featuring authors such as Sarah J Maas and Freida McFadden.

lifestyle
New York City residents were astonished to see a whale on camera swimming near Brooklyn.

New York City residents were astonished to see a whale on camera swimming near Brooklyn.

lifestyle
New York City residents were astonished to see a whale swimming under the Brooklyn Bridge on camera.

New York City residents were astonished to see a whale swimming under the Brooklyn Bridge on camera.

lifestyle
10 enchanting winter books to put you in the festive mood

10 enchanting winter books to put you in the festive mood

lifestyle
Florida authorities recover centuries-old gold treasure that was stolen.

Florida authorities recover centuries-old gold treasure that was stolen.

lifestyle
A budget-friendly luxury gift guide for the special someone in your life.

A budget-friendly luxury gift guide for the special someone in your life.

lifestyle
An ancient Egyptian temple and cult center, remarkably preserved, is unearthed by archaeologists.

An ancient Egyptian temple and cult center, remarkably preserved, is unearthed by archaeologists.

lifestyle
Cyber Monday Sales on Amazon: 25 Deals to Shop Through December 2

Cyber Monday Sales on Amazon: 25 Deals to Shop Through December 2

lifestyle
Ancient Mayan fish-trapping canals discovered by archaeologists using drones

Ancient Mayan fish-trapping canals discovered by archaeologists using drones

lifestyle
Snowboarding and skiing tips for adults and beginners

Snowboarding and skiing tips for adults and beginners

lifestyle
The world is captivated by the adorable reaction of a baby to his new glasses: 'Melts hearts'

The world is captivated by the adorable reaction of a baby to his new glasses: 'Melts hearts'

lifestyle
You can purchase 12 of Amazon's top books of 2024 at a discount during Black Friday.

You can purchase 12 of Amazon's top books of 2024 at a discount during Black Friday.

lifestyle
In a Christmas tree shipping container, Hawaii store employees stumbled upon a 2-foot snake.

In a Christmas tree shipping container, Hawaii store employees stumbled upon a 2-foot snake.

lifestyle