Common name: Coral worm

General information

The Feather Duster Worm, scientifically known as Salmacina dysteri, is a fascinating marine annelid that adds both movement and a touch of elegance to the reef aquarium. These segmented worms are known for their beautiful, fan-like crowns which they use for filter feeding. The crown, or radioles, comes in a variety of colors, often displaying bands or patterns that can be quite striking.

Care

Feather Duster Worms are relatively easy to care for, provided they are housed in a well-established aquarium with stable water conditions. They require a substrate or live rock to which they can attach their tubes. These worms are filter feeders, so they thrive in environments with a steady flow of water that carries microorganisms and detritus for them to feed on. It's important to ensure that the water quality is high, with low levels of nitrates and phosphates.

Reproduction

Reproduction in Salmacina dysteri typically involves the release of gametes into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally. In the aquarium, this spawning behavior can be difficult to observe and manage, and breeding these worms in captivity is not commonly practiced.

Symbiosis

While Salmacina dysteri does not engage in the more well-known forms of symbiosis like those seen in clownfish and anemones, their presence in a reef tank can contribute to the overall health of the ecosystem. They help maintain water quality by filter feeding and can be part of a clean-up crew that includes other invertebrates.

Habitat

In the wild, Feather Duster Worms are typically found in shallow waters, often attaching themselves to hard substrates like rocks or coral. They can be found in a range of marine environments, from coral reefs to seagrass beds.