Common name: Twin fan worm

General information

The Feather Duster Worm, scientifically known as Bispira volutacornis, is a captivating marine invertebrate that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This species belongs to the family Sabellidae and is known for its beautiful crown of radioles, which resemble a feather duster—hence the name. These radioles are not only visually striking but also serve a vital function in filter feeding, as the worm uses them to catch plankton and other small particles from the water column.

Care

Feather Duster Worms are relatively easy to care for, provided they are placed in a stable marine environment. They require a tank with good water quality and a moderate to strong water flow to facilitate their filter-feeding habits. It's important to ensure that there are no aggressive tank mates that might damage their delicate crowns. Supplemental feeding with phytoplankton or fine particulate foods can be beneficial, especially in tanks with low natural plankton levels.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Bispira volutacornis can occur both sexually and asexually. Sexual reproduction involves the release of gametes into the water column, where fertilization takes place externally. Asexually, they can reproduce by budding or fragmentation, allowing for rapid population growth under favorable conditions. In the aquarium, sexual reproduction is less common, but hobbyists may observe the growth of new individuals from fragments of the parent worm.

Symbiosis

While Bispira volutacornis does not engage in the more well-known forms of symbiosis, such as those seen in clownfish and anemones, it does play a role in the tank's ecosystem. Its filter-feeding activity helps to maintain water quality by removing excess particulate matter, thus contributing to a balanced and healthy aquarium environment.

Habitat

In the wild, Feather Duster Worms are typically found in a range of marine habitats, from coral reefs to sandy bottoms, often attaching themselves to hard substrates. They construct a protective tube made of mucus and sediment particles, which provides shelter and allows them to retract quickly if threatened.