Feather Duster Worm
Feather Duster Worms, also known as Fan Worms or Feather Duster Tubeworms, are beautiful and fascinating filter-feeding marine invertebrates commonly found in saltwater aquariums. If you are considering keeping Feather Duster Worms in your aquarium, it's important to understand and meet their specific requirements:
Tank Size: Feather Duster Worms can vary in size, but they generally do not require a large tank footprint. However, they do appreciate vertical space to extend their feathery crowns. A tank size of at least 10 gallons is suitable for accommodating Feather Duster Worms.
Water Parameters: Maintaining stable and appropriate water conditions is crucial for the health of Feather Duster Worms. The recommended water temperature should be between 72°F and 78°F (22°C to 25°C). Salinity levels should be maintained at around 1.023 to 1.026 specific gravity, and pH levels should be within the range of 8.1 to 8.4. Regular monitoring of ammonia, nitrate, and nitrite levels is essential.
Substrate: Provide a suitable substrate for Feather Duster Worms to anchor their tubes. A sandy substrate is ideal, allowing them to construct and extend their protective tubes. Avoid using sharp or coarse substrates that can potentially damage their delicate structures.
Lighting: Feather Duster Worms are sensitive to intense lighting. They prefer low to moderate lighting levels in the aquarium. Indirect or diffused lighting is ideal to prevent direct exposure to bright lights, which can stress or harm them.
Water Flow: Feather Duster Worms thrive in areas with gentle water flow. Position powerheads or aquarium pumps to create mild water movement, ensuring that it does not disrupt their delicate feeding structures or cause excessive turbulence.
Feeding: Feather Duster Worms are filter feeders, relying on their feathery crowns to capture microscopic organisms and particles from the water. They primarily feed on phytoplankton and other organic matter. Supplement their diet by providing a diverse range of suitable food, such as liquid or powdered coral foods, marine snow, or specialized filter-feeding supplements.
Tank Mates: Feather Duster Worms are generally peaceful and can coexist with a variety of tankmates. However, avoid housing aggressive or predatory species that may damage or prey upon the worms. Some fish species, such as certain wrasses or triggerfish, may nip at the worms' crowns, so choose tankmates carefully.
Water Quality and Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to maintain optimal water quality. Perform routine water changes to remove accumulated waste and maintain stable water parameters. Utilize a protein skimmer and efficient filtration to remove excess organic matter and maintain water clarity.
It's important to note that Feather Duster Worms have specific care requirements and may not be suitable for all aquarium setups. Ensure you have a stable and well-established aquarium with proper water quality, food availability, and suitable tankmates before introducing them. Additionally, consult with experienced hobbyists or marine experts for guidance on their care and compatibility with other tank inhabitants.