This deep-sea worm turns two toxins into a harmless mineral

By Khushleen Kaur2025-09-09T08:30:00

A photograph of the bright yellow Paralvinella hessleri worm

Source: Wang H, et al., 2025, PLOS Biology, CC-BY 4.0

Unusual biomineralisation strategy used for detoxification rather than reinforcing tissues

A deep-sea worm survives in toxic conditions around hydrothermal vents by converting arsenic and sulfur into a benign mineral. This natural biomineralisation process allows Paralvinella hessleri to tolerate elevated levels of arsenic and provides the worm with its striking yellow colour.