Common name: Spagetti worm

General information

The Spaghetti Worm, scientifically known as Loimia medusa, is a fascinating marine polychaete worm that belongs to the family Terebellidae. They are named for their numerous long, thin, tentacle-like structures that resemble spaghetti. These tentacles are actually highly specialized feeding appendages that the worm uses to collect organic particles from the surrounding water and sediment.

Care

In the aquarium, Spaghetti Worms are considered beneficial detritivores. They help maintain a clean substrate by consuming detritus, uneaten food, and decaying matter. They are relatively easy to care for, requiring a sandy or muddy substrate where they can burrow and extend their tentacles to feed. Stable water conditions and regular feeding of fine particulate foods will support their health and growth.

Reproduction

Spaghetti Worms are known to reproduce both sexually and asexually. In an aquarium setting, sexual reproduction is less common, but hobbyists may occasionally observe small swarms of gametes released into the water column. Asexual reproduction, through fragmentation, may also occur, leading to the establishment of new individuals.

Habitat

Loimia medusa is typically found in shallow marine environments, often buried in sandy or muddy substrates. They are widespread in various oceanic regions, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. In the wild, they can be found at depths ranging from the intertidal zone to several meters below the surface.