Palolo

Palolo, scientifically known as Eunice viridis, is a species of marine polychaete worm that lives in the coral reefs of the South Pacific. It is famous for its synchronized swarming, an event that occurs annually in the late autumn or early spring, typically a week after the full moon. During this event, the epitokes, which are the reproductive segments of the worms, rise to the surface of the ocean in great numbers. These epitokes break off from the main body of the worm and swim towards the surface where they release their eggs and sperm.

The swarming of palolo is a significant cultural event for the indigenous peoples of Samoa, Fiji, and other Pacific islands. It is often referred to as the "Palolo Festival" and is a time for feasting and celebration. The worms are considered a delicacy and are harvested by hand or with nets as they surface. The timing of the palolo emergence is crucial and has been traditionally predicted by elders based on lunar cycles and other environmental cues. The exact biological triggers for this mass spawning are still a subject of scientific research, but it is believed to be influenced by factors such as moonlight, tides, and water temperature. The sustainable harvesting of palolo is important to ensure the continued survival of the species and the cultural traditions associated with it.