Common name: Scale Worm
General Information
The Scale Worm (Lepidonotus clava) is a fascinating marine polychaete worm known for its unique appearance and ecological role. This species is part of the Polynoidae family, commonly referred to as "scale worms" due to the overlapping scales, or elytra, that cover their bodies. These scales give the worm a somewhat armored appearance, making it a visually striking addition to any marine enthusiast's observations. While not commonly kept in aquariums, they are occasionally encountered as hitchhikers on live rock or in reef setups.
Lepidonotus clava is typically found in shallow waters, often under rocks or within crevices, where it plays a role in the ecosystem as a scavenger. Its body is adorned with club-shaped appendages, which contribute to its common name. These worms are relatively small but can be quite active, especially when disturbed.
Details
- Estimated price
- Unknown Rarely available in trade; mostly encountered as hitchhikers
- Recommended minimum volume
- 20 liter (5.3 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.023 to 1.026
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8 to 8.5
- Average size
- 5 cm (2″)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Hardy hitchhiker but not intentionally kept
- Diet
- Detritivore Feeds on detritus and decaying organic matter
- Reefsafe
- Yes Does not harm corals or other reef inhabitants
- Aggression
- Peaceful Secretive and non-aggressive
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumSegmented WormsAnnelida
- ClassBristle WormsPolychaeta
- OrderRagwormsPhyllodocida
- FamilyScale WormsPolynoidae
- GenusScale WormsLepidonotus
- SpeciesScale WormLepidonotus clava (Montagu, 1808)
- SynonymsAphrodita clava Montagu, 1808Eumolpe squamata Blainville, 1828Polynoe clypeata Grube, 1860Polynoe dorsalis Quatrefages, 1866Polynoe fuscescens Quatrefages, 1866Polynoe grubiana Claparède, 1870Polynoe modesta Quatrefages, 1866
- Source: GBIF | Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Care
While Lepidonotus clava is not a species intentionally kept in aquariums, those who encounter it as a hitchhiker should ensure that it has access to a stable marine environment. These worms thrive in tanks with live rock, as it provides both shelter and a source of detritus for feeding. They are hardy and can adapt to a range of water conditions, provided that the parameters remain stable.
Diet and Feeding
As scavengers, Scale Worms feed on detritus, decaying organic matter, and occasionally small invertebrates. In captivity, they can subsist on leftover food particles, making them a useful addition to the tank's cleanup crew. However, their diet should not be relied upon for maintaining tank cleanliness entirely, as their impact is minimal compared to other dedicated scavengers.
Behavior and Compatibility
Lepidonotus clava is generally peaceful and does not pose a threat to most tank inhabitants. However, it may prey on very small invertebrates if the opportunity arises. Its secretive nature means it often goes unnoticed, hiding under rocks or within crevices during the day and becoming more active at night.
While not considered a pest, its presence may be undesirable for some aquarists who prefer to control every aspect of their tank's ecosystem. For others, it can be an interesting and harmless addition to the biodiversity of a reef tank.
Habitat
In the wild, Lepidonotus clava is found in shallow marine environments, often in intertidal zones or under rocks. It prefers habitats with plenty of hiding spots and access to detritus or decaying organic material, which forms the bulk of its diet. Replicating these conditions in captivity is relatively straightforward, as live rock provides ample shelter and food sources.