Apologies in advance, because I know this question gets asked a million times. I've been setting a trap for bristle worms after noticing my yellow watchman goby had some bristles coming out of him. Here's a picture of what I've trapped. Based on what I've read, it's leading me to believe these are actually fire worms based on how thick they are. The smallest one in the picture is probably 2 inches long, the other two big ones are more like six inches. Thoughts?
Fire Worm?
- Thread starter richardbflo
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Not sure which bristle worms these are, but no red tuffs. So, they can't be fireworms. Unless you can see the red tuffs. They are not visible in the photo provided.
Did you catch them harming coral? Or just a trap?
Did you catch them harming coral? Or just a trap?
Morning coffee kicking in, if they're causing your goby issues. I'd remove them regardless. Cerith snails, brittle star fish or micro brittles for left over food clean up is your safest bet
Brighter lighting would help with identity but may be fireworm
I caught them using a trap. I haven't seen them out during the day time, only in the evening and they quickly hide if I shine a light at them. Feeling much more relief to think they are not possibly fire worms.
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The best way to tell if it’s a bearded fireworm is to look at its head. If it’s a bearded fireworm it will have a noticeable red feathery thing (caruncle) on its head. It’s such a defining characteristic that the scientific name of the worm has it in the name (Hermodice carunculata).
I can’t clearly see a head in the picture but if I had to guess from those pictures I’d guess big regular bristleworms. I regularly get them that size in my refugium where they have no predators to eat them.
I can’t clearly see a head in the picture but if I had to guess from those pictures I’d guess big regular bristleworms. I regularly get them that size in my refugium where they have no predators to eat them.
the worms in that article do not share an appearance of the op's picture. And are from Hawaii. Also, there are small red tuffs on the body which are difficult to see due to photo size and quality. I outlined the red tuffs for you.Fire worm for sure.
Critter Identification: Fireworms – First Time Fish Keeper
Bristle worms are probably the most common reef tank critter, most aquarists will encounter them at some point in the hobby. Though most types of Bristleworms (Common Bristleworms) are fairly harmless, the Fireworm is a different story.
firsttimemarinekeeper.com
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