Ologies with Alie Ward Benthopelagic Nematology (DEEP SEA WORMS) with Holly Bik
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Sep 27, 2023 Antarctic explorer and Nematologist Dr. Holly Bik discusses deep sea (benthopelagic) worms, including their biology, habitats, and behaviors. They cover topics such as the unique features of nematodes, studying nematodes in Antarctica, the impact of glaciers on deep sea worms, and the importance of studying worm biodiversity in the ocean. They also touch on regrowth capabilities of certain worms, nematodes in humans, and artistic science communication.
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Deep Sea Nematodes Power Benthic Food Webs
- Benthopelagic nematodes are microscopic roundworms living abundantly in deep-sea and Antarctic sediments and form a major component of benthic food webs.
- They act like microscopic earthworms: eating bacteria and diatoms, bioturbating sediments, and feeding larger predators like polychaetes.
Worm ID Depends On Tiny Microscopic Features
- Nematode taxonomy relies heavily on minute morphological features like rows and pairs of head hairs (cilia) and amphid spirals seen via electron microscopy.
- Visual ID can mislead because morphology doesn't always match genetic differences, so DNA sequencing is essential.
Three Months Unplugged Sampling Antarctica
- Holly Bik spent three months on a ship around East Antarctica with near–dial-up internet and limited satellite coverage.
- She used the isolation to learn photography, read long novels, and fully unplug while sampling Antarctic sediments for nematodes.