Story perspectives

Yellow Worm Thrives in Extreme Arsenic-Filled Environments

9/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Paralvinella hessleri, a bright yellow worm from the Pacific Ocean, stores arsenic in its skin cells.
It thrives in extreme conditions at hydrothermal vents with temperatures up to 608°F (320°C).
Feeding on bacteria and organic debris, it can grow to 0.8 inches (22 mm).
The worm converts toxic arsenic into orpiment, allowing it to survive in acidic, metal-rich environments.
Research from 2025 describes its survival strategy as "fighting poison with poison."

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Story summary

Paralvinella hessleri, a bright yellow worm from the Pacific Ocean, stores arsenic in its skin cells.
It thrives in extreme conditions at hydrothermal vents with temperatures up to 608°F (320°C).
Feeding on bacteria and organic debris, it can grow to 0.8 inches (22 mm).
The worm converts toxic arsenic into orpiment, allowing it to survive in acidic, metal-rich environments.
Research from 2025 describes its survival strategy as "fighting poison with poison."