Common name: Christmas Tree Worm

General information

The Christmas Tree Worm (Spirobranchus corniculatus) is a colorful and captivating species of tube-building polychaete worm. Known for their distinctive and ornate spiral structures, which resemble small fir trees, these worms are a favorite among reef aquarium enthusiasts. The spirals are actually highly modified gills that come in a variety of colors, including red, orange, yellow, blue, and white.

These worms are sedentary, spending their lives anchored to live coral, particularly stony corals like brain corals and star corals. They are filter feeders, capturing plankton and other small particles from the water column with their feather-like radioles.

Care

Christmas Tree Worms require stable water conditions and do well in established reef aquariums with good water flow and quality. They need a supply of microplankton or foods designed for filter feeders to thrive. It's important to ensure that no sediment or detritus settles on their delicate radioles, as this can cause stress and potential harm.

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 with optimal conditions, it's possible to observe spawning events.

Symbiosis

Spirobranchus corniculatus has a fascinating symbiotic relationship with the corals they inhabit. They benefit from the coral's structure for protection and support, while the coral benefits from the worm's ability to clean its surface from debris and sediments, which can promote better coral health and growth.

Habitat

Christmas Tree Worms are found in tropical coral reefs around the world. They prefer shallow waters where there is plenty of light and water flow to bring them food particles. They embed themselves in the hard skeletons of corals, which provides them with a secure and stable home.