The sea mouse or Aphrodite (Aphrodita aculeata) is an unusual polychaete annelid worm found on the seabed just offshore in temperate waters where it feeds on dead animals. These creatures, which measure 7.5–15 centimeters (3–6 inches) in length, are occasionally washed up on beaches after storms. Partly concealed among its iridescent hairs are dark, hollow spines thought to contain poison. If spines penetrate and break off in the skin they cause injury.