Common name: tubeworm

Scientific name: Serpula vermicularis Linnaeus, 1767

General information

Serpula vermicularis, commonly known as the European calcareous tubeworm or feather duster worm, is a species of segmented marine worm belonging to the family Serpulidae. These worms are known for their beautiful, fan-like crowns which they use for feeding and respiration. The crown, or radioles, can come in a variety of colors including red, orange, yellow, or white, making them an attractive addition to the marine aquarium.

The calcareous tube that Serpula vermicularis constructs is a unique feature, providing the worm with protection from predators and environmental stress. These tubes can become encrusted with coralline algae, blending into the reef environment.

Details

Recommended minimum tank volume
75 liter (20 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.025
Temperature
22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8.1 to 8.4
Average size
10 cm (4″)
Care level
Moderate to easy Sensitive to water quality.
Diet
Planktonivore Filter feeds on plankton.
Reefsafe
Yes
Aggression
Peaceful
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Segmented Worms
    Annelida
  3. Class
    Bristle Worms
    Polychaeta
  4. Order
    Feather Duster Worms
    Sabellida
  5. Family
    Christmas Tree Worms
    Serpulidae
  6. Genus
    Serpula
    Serpula
  7. Species
    tubeworm
    Serpula vermicularis Linnaeus, 1767
  8. Synonyms
    Serpula aspera Philippi, 1844
    Serpula contorcuplicata Linnaeus, 1758
    Serpula crater Claparède, 1870
    Serpula cristata Sowerby & Sowerby, 1820-25
    Serpula echinata Gmelin, 1791
    Serpula fascicularis Lamarck, 1818
    Serpula gervaisii Quatrefages, 1866
    Serpula interrupta Quatrefages, 1866
    Serpula montagui Quatrefages, 1866
    Serpula pallida Philippi, 1844
    Serpula philippii Mörch, 1863
    Serpula proboscidea (Bruguière, 1789)
    Serpula rugosa Turton, 1819
    Serpula venusta Philippi, 1844
    Serpula vermicularis echinata Gmelin, 1791
    Vermilia vermicularis Fleming, 1825

Care

Keeping Serpula vermicularis in a reef aquarium requires stable water conditions and good water quality to mimic their natural habitat. They prefer areas with moderate to strong water flow which helps them capture food particles suspended in the water. It's important to ensure that there are no aggressive tank mates that might damage their delicate crowns.

Feeding these worms consists of providing a steady supply of fine particulate organic matter, such as phytoplankton or specially formulated commercial foods for filter feeders.

Reproduction

In the wild, Serpula vermicularis reproduces by releasing eggs and sperm into the water column, where fertilization occurs externally. In the aquarium, successful breeding is rare, but with optimal conditions, it is possible to observe spawning behavior.

Symbiosis

While not known for any specific symbiotic relationships, Serpula vermicularis contributes to the biodiversity and balance of the reef aquarium by participating in nutrient cycling and providing a unique aesthetic.

Habitat

Serpula vermicularis is found in a range of marine environments from shallow waters to depths of over 200 meters. They are widespread in the Northeast Atlantic, from the Arctic down to the Mediterranean and West Africa. They often attach to hard substrates such as rocks, shells, or man-made structures.