Palola

The palolo worm is a type of marine polychaete worm known for its unique breeding behavior. During specific times of the year, coinciding with certain moon phases, the tail section of the worm, called the epitoke, breaks off. This epitoke, filled with reproductive cells, swims to the surface to release eggs and sperm. This synchronized release attracts predators, including humans, who gather the epitokes as a food delicacy, particularly in the South Pacific. The anterior section of the worm, the atoke, remains in its burrow and regenerates a new tail. Palolo worms inhabit coral reefs and are found in various regions, including the South Pacific and the West Indies.1