Order

Common name: Ragworms

Scientific name: Phyllodocida

Phyllodocida is an order of polychaete worms, commonly known as ragworms, clam worms, scale worms, and eunicids. These worms are characterized by their elongated bodies, segmented with parapodia (lateral appendages) that aid in locomotion. Many species within this order are benthic, living in or on the seabed, and are important for the marine ecosystem as they participate in the sediment turnover and serve as prey for various marine animals. In reef aquariums, some smaller species of scale worms can be beneficial detritivores, helping to clean up waste. However, larger predatory species may pose a threat to other invertebrates and should be monitored or avoided.

  1. King Ragworm (Alitta virens) close-up lying on the sand
    Common name: King Ragworm
    Scientific name: Alitta virens
  2. Common name: Green Leaf Worm
    Scientific name: Eulalia viridis
  3. Common name: Unicorn Worm
    Scientific name: Glycera unicornis
  4. Spirobranchus giganteus, Christmas tree worms
    Common name: Sponge Worm
    Scientific name: Haplosyllis spongicola
  5. Sea star scale worm, Asterophilia carlae
    Common name: Scale Worm
    Scientific name: Lepidonotus clava
  6. Common name: Slender Ragworm
    Scientific name: Nereis pelagica
  7. Common name: Clam Worm
    Scientific name: Nereis vexillosa
  8. Caribbean fire bristle worm
    Common name: Bristle Worm
    Scientific name: Phyllodoce lamelligera