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)
    Common name: King Ragworm
    Scientific name: Alitta virens
  2. Green Leaf Worm (Eulalia viridis)
    Common name: Green Leaf Worm
    Scientific name: Eulalia viridis
  3. Common name: Unicorn Worm
    Scientific name: Glycera unicornis
  4. Sponge Worm (Haplosyllis spongicola)
    Common name: Sponge Worm
    Scientific name: Haplosyllis spongicola
  5. Scale Worm (Lepidonotus clava)
    Common name: Scale Worm
    Scientific name: Lepidonotus clava
  6. Slender Ragworm (Nereis pelagica)
    Common name: Slender Ragworm
    Scientific name: Nereis pelagica
  7. Clam Worm (Nereis vexillosa)
    Common name: Clam Worm
    Scientific name: Nereis vexillosa
  8. Lamellate Leaf Worm (Phyllodoce lamelligera)
    Common name: Lamellate Leaf Worm
    Scientific name: Phyllodoce lamelligera