Common name: hard tube coco worm

General information

The Christmas Tree Worm, scientifically known as Protula bispiralis, is a colorful and fascinating marine worm that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. These worms are named for their distinct, spiraling, tree-like appendages that protrude from their tubes and are used for feeding and respiration. They come in a variety of vibrant colors, including red, orange, yellow, blue, and white, adding a splash of color and diversity to the reef tank.

Care

Christmas Tree Worms require stable water conditions with good water flow and low sedimentation to thrive. They are filter feeders and need a constant supply of plankton or fine particulate organic matter. It's important to ensure that the water quality is high, with low nitrate and phosphate levels, to prevent the clogging of their delicate feeding structures.

Reproduction

In the wild, Christmas Tree Worms reproduce by spawning, where males and females release sperm and eggs into the water column. In the aquarium, however, reproduction is less common, but hobbyists may occasionally observe small wormlets appearing near adult specimens, indicating successful reproduction.

Symbiosis

Christmas Tree Worms often establish a symbiotic relationship with hard corals, particularly stony corals like brain corals (@species:platygyra-daedalea) and star corals (@species:siderastrea-siderea). They bore into the coral's skeleton, where they live protected while their plumes extend out for feeding. The worms do not harm the coral, and their presence can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the coral structure.

Habitat

Protula bispiralis is found in tropical coral reefs around the world, often embedded in live hard corals. They prefer well-lit environments where they can access a steady flow of water to capture food particles.