Common name: Bristle Worm

General information

The Bristle Worm, scientifically known as Eunice norvegica, is a type of polychaete worm commonly found in marine aquariums. These worms are part of the natural clean-up crew, helping to break down detritus and uneaten food. They are characterized by their elongated bodies and numerous bristles, which can cause irritation if handled without care.

Care

Bristle Worms are generally considered beneficial in a reef tank as they contribute to the detrital decomposition process. They are not demanding in terms of care, as they scavenge for organic waste. However, their populations should be monitored, as overpopulation can indicate overfeeding or poor tank maintenance.

Reproduction

Eunice norvegica reproduces sexually, with most species releasing eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization occurs. They can also reproduce asexually through fragmentation. In aquariums, their numbers can increase rapidly if there is an abundance of food and poor tank hygiene.

Habitat

In the wild, Bristle Worms are found in a variety of marine environments, from shallow waters to deep-sea habitats. They often reside in the sediment, under rocks, and within the reef structure, making them a common but often unseen inhabitant of many marine ecosystems.