Learning Zone

Sea mouse - Aphrodita aculeata

Aphrodita aculeata

Image Keith Hiscock - Aphrodita aculeata. Image width ca 12 cm.
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Distribution map

Aphrodita aculeata recorded (dark blue bullet) and expected (light blue bullet) distribution in Britain and Ireland (see below)

Why do the maps differ?

Sightings Have you seen Aphrodita aculeata?
If so please submit your record.

Aphrodita aculeata is not listed under any importance categories.

Key identification features Key identification features

  • An oval bodied worm around 10-20 cm long and up to 6 cm wide.
  • It has a distinctive covering of bristles (chaeta) giving it a furry appearance.
  • Some chaetae are iridescent giving the flanks a blue, green, yellow and bronze shimmer.
  • The underside is yellow or brown in colour and forms a ridged, flattened sole.
  • The head is hidden but two horn-like palps protrude in front.

Habitat Habitat

  • Found just below the shore to depths of over 1000 m where it lives on mud and sand.

Species facts Species facts

  • May be found washed up on the shore after storms or stranded during low tides.

Want to read more?

Have a look at the intermediate review or the advanced review.

Sightings Have you seen a sea mouse? If so please submit your record.