Worms
Worms in the marine aquarium hobby are fascinating creatures that play various roles in the ecosystem, providing both functional benefits and aesthetic interest. These worms come in many forms, from harmless detritivores to more potentially harmful species, making them both beneficial and, in some cases, problematic in reef tanks.
Bristle worms are among the most common types found in marine aquariums. While they often get a bad reputation as pests, many bristle worms are actually beneficial, acting as natural cleaners by consuming uneaten food and detritus. However, some bristle worms, particularly fireworms (a more toxic subgroup of bristle worms), can pose a threat to corals and other invertebrates due to their venomous bristles.
Peanut worms are another type often found in reef tanks, usually in the live rock or substrate. These harmless detritivores help keep the aquarium clean by feeding on organic matter and contribute to nutrient recycling.
Other worms, such as flatworms or ribbon worms, may also appear in marine tanks, sometimes as beneficial cleaners or sometimes as pests that can overpopulate and harm other species.
Common name: King RagwormScientific name: Alitta virens
Common name: Green SpoonwormScientific name: Bonellia viridis
Common name: Marine Blue FlatwormScientific name: Cycloporus venetus- Common name: Green Leaf WormScientific name: Eulalia viridis
- Common name: Norwegian Sea WormScientific name: Eunice norvegica
- Common name: Unicorn WormScientific name: Glycera unicornis
- Common name: FlatwormScientific name: Leptoplana tremellaris
- Common name: Medusa WormScientific name: Loimia medusa
Common name: Orsak's FlatwormScientific name: Maiazoon orsaki- Common name: Clam WormScientific name: Nereis vexillosa
- Common name: Oenone fulgidaScientific name: Oenone fulgida
Common name: Persian Carpet FlatwormScientific name: Pseudobiceros bedfordi- Common name: Peanut WormScientific name: Sipunculus nudus