May 22, 2026, 1:34 pm | Read time: 2 minutes

On the beaches of Patagonia, a curious sight is currently unfolding: In recent weeks, thousands of so-called “penis fish” have been repeatedly discovered along the coasts around Comodoro Rivadavia and Puerto Madryn. Initially, residents and fishermen drew attention to the unusually large number of these creatures. Typically, these worm-like marine animals live hidden in the sandy seabed off the coast, but researchers believe they were washed ashore by strong waves and rough seas.

The distinctive feature of these creatures is their striking appearance, which has earned them their suggestive nickname: The “penis fish” resembles the male genitalia in shape. However, they are not actually fish but marine worms. According to CONICET researcher José Fernández Alfaya, they are common along the Patagonian coast but usually remain invisible as they live buried under the sand.

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The “penis fish” may be less extraordinary to people in Japan, China, or South Korea. There, these spoon worms are considered a delicacy and are often sold at street markets. In South Korea, they are known as “Gaebul,” which roughly translates to “sea penis.” Their flesh is said to be chewy and slightly sweet.

In Argentina, the creatures are not part of the local diet. However, many people are familiar with them: Fishermen have been using the worms as bait for decades.

Thousands of “Penis Fish” Were Washed Ashore in 2023

Although “penis fish” are widespread in the oceans, they rarely wash ashore in large numbers. A similar event in 2023 near Río Grande in southern Argentina drew attention: After severe storms, the rough seas washed thousands of these creatures ashore. A stranding in 2019 at Drakes Beach, about 50 miles from San Francisco, also made headlines worldwide. There, too, the worm-like marine creatures suddenly covered the beach.

The “penis fish” were not removed, however. Instead, the washed-up creatures served as food for other marine animals. They are also harmless to humans, as they have neither spines nor toxins.