Common name: Segmented Worms
Annelida, commonly known as segmented worms, is a diverse phylum that includes over 22,000 species, ranging from terrestrial earthworms to aquatic polychaetes. These creatures are characterized by their segmented bodies, which are divided into ring-like segments called annuli. Each segment contains elements of the nervous, excretory, and circulatory systems, allowing for greater flexibility and mobility.
In the context of marine aquariums, polychaetes are the most relevant group within Annelida. These marine worms are often found in live rock and sand substrates, playing crucial roles in the ecosystem. They contribute to the breakdown of organic material and help maintain a healthy substrate by aerating it and facilitating nutrient cycling. Some species, like the feather duster worms, are popular among aquarists for their decorative appearance and can be intentionally added to tanks for their beauty and ecological benefits.
However, not all annelids are desirable in aquariums. Some, such as the bristle worms, can become pests if their populations grow unchecked. While they are excellent scavengers and help clean up detritus, their bristles can irritate fish and corals, and large populations can indicate overfeeding or other imbalances in the tank.
Annelids are fascinating not only for their ecological roles but also for their regenerative abilities. Many species can regenerate lost segments, which is a subject of scientific interest. For aquarists, understanding the balance of beneficial and potentially problematic annelids is key to maintaining a thriving marine environment.
Common name: King RagwormScientific name: Alitta virens- Common name: Social feather dusterScientific name: Bispira brunnea
- Common name: Banded FanwormScientific name: Bispira melanostigma
- Common name: Social Feather DusterScientific name: Bispira tricyclia
- Common name: Feather Duster WormScientific name: Bispira viola
- Common name: Twin fan wormScientific name: Bispira volutacornis
Common name: Green SpoonwormScientific name: Bonellia viridis
Common name: Green Leaf WormScientific name: Eulalia viridis
Common name: Bobbit WormScientific name: Eunice aphroditois- Common name: Norwegian Sea WormScientific name: Eunice norvegica
Common name: Strawberry WormScientific name: Eupolymnia nebulosa- Common name: Common FirewormScientific name: Eurythoe complanata
- Common name: Tangled TubewormScientific name: Filograna implexa
- Common name: Filogranella elatensisScientific name: Filogranella elatensis
- Common name: Unicorn WormScientific name: Glycera unicornis
Common name: Sponge WormScientific name: Haplosyllis spongicola- Common name: bearded firewormScientific name: Hermodice carunculata
Common name: Scale WormScientific name: Lepidonotus clava
Common name: Medusa WormScientific name: Loimia medusa- Common name: Red Feather DusterScientific name: Myxicola infundibulum
Common name: Slender RagwormScientific name: Nereis pelagica
Common name: Clam WormScientific name: Nereis vexillosa
Common name: Glowing Paddle WormScientific name: Oenone fulgida
Common name: Lamellate Leaf WormScientific name: Phyllodoce lamelligera- Common name: hard tube coco wormScientific name: Protula bispiralis
- Common name: Mediterranean FanwormScientific name: Sabella fallax
- Common name: feather dusterScientific name: Sabellastarte magnifica
Common name: Feather Duster WormScientific name: Sabellastarte sanctijosephi- Common name: Indian feather duster wormScientific name: Sabellastarte spectabilis
- Common name: Coral wormScientific name: Salmacina dysteri
- Common name: tubewormScientific name: Serpula vermicularis
- Common name: Christmas Tree WormScientific name: Spirobranchus corniculatus
- Common name: Christmas Tree WormScientific name: Spirobranchus giganteus