Common name: King Ragworm

General Information

The King Ragworm, scientifically known as Alitta virens, is a fascinating marine polychaete worm commonly found along the coasts of Europe and North America. Known for its impressive size, it can reach lengths of up to 1 meter, making it one of the largest ragworms. These worms have become popular in the fishing industry as bait due to their robust nature and attractive movement in water.

In the aquarium hobby, Alitta virens is sometimes kept in marine tanks for its burrowing behavior and as a natural part of the substrate ecosystem. While not as commonly kept as more colorful marine species, they offer unique ecological benefits by aerating the substrate and contributing to the nutrient cycle.

Care

Caring for King Ragworms in an aquarium setting involves providing a sandy or muddy substrate to mimic their natural habitat. They thrive in environments where they can burrow and forage, and a tank with a deep substrate layer is ideal. These worms are hardy and can adapt to a range of marine conditions, but stable salinity and temperature are crucial for their well-being.

Diet and Feeding

King Ragworms are omnivorous scavengers, feeding on detritus, small invertebrates, and organic matter in the substrate. In captivity, they can be fed a diet of marine pellets, chopped seafood, and algae wafers. It's important to ensure that the food reaches the substrate where they can easily access it.

Behavior and Compatibility

Alitta virens is generally peaceful and can coexist with a variety of marine species. They are active burrowers, which can help keep the substrate aerated and healthy. However, their large size and burrowing habits mean they may not be suitable for all tank setups, particularly those with delicate corals or plants.

Reproduction

Reproduction in King Ragworms is typically seasonal, with spawning occurring in warmer months. They exhibit a fascinating reproductive strategy known as epitoky, where parts of their body transform to facilitate the release of gametes into the water column. Breeding them in captivity can be challenging due to these specific environmental triggers.

Health and Common Issues

King Ragworms are generally hardy, but they require a stable environment to thrive. Fluctuations in water quality or temperature can lead to stress and health issues. Regular monitoring of water parameters and maintaining a clean substrate are essential to their health.

Habitat

Alitta virens is native to the intertidal zones of the North Atlantic, commonly found in sandy and muddy substrates. They are adapted to environments with varying salinity levels, often inhabiting estuaries and coastal lagoons. Their preference for burrowing in soft substrates makes them well-suited for tanks that replicate these conditions.