Painful 'fireworms' washing ashore South Texas coast

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Spotted south of Corpus Christi on Thursday, the bearded fireworm can grow up to a foot in length and packs a painful sting to back up its name.

Marine Biologist Tony Reisinger, has seen them on South Padre once before.

They are considered annelids, or in the same phylum as earthworms and leeches. He says their cactus-like spines run down their body.

“The smaller spines on cactus, it stays in your skin. So if you do touch one, it’s very painful”

Reisinger recommends tape and vinegar to remove and dissolve the spines if stung.

If you suspect come across a fireworm on the shore, report it to Texas Parks and Wildlife.