From a leathery tube unfurls a delicate, spiraling crown of feathery tentacles in banded browns, tans, and reds. The Feather Duster Worm filters the water gracefully and vanishes in a flash when startled.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Nutritional deficiency
- Dehydration
- Parasites
Care at a glance
- ExerciseLow
A calm, unhurried swimmer โ peaceful surroundings suit them best.
- GroomingRoutine tank care
Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
- Living spaceNano-tank friendly
Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
- Owner experienceGreat first pet
Forgiving and easy to get started with.
- Commitment2โ5 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Nutritional deficiency ยท Dehydration ยท Parasites
๐ Care guide
Feather Duster Worms (family Sabellidae, such as Sabellastarte) are tube-dwelling filter feeders from tropical reefs worldwide, with crowns spanning up to 10 cm. The worm builds a soft parchment-like tube and extends a beautiful radiole crown to strain plankton and fine particles from the water, retracting instantly at any disturbance. Place in an established reef tank of 75 litres or more with gentle to moderate flow, wedging the tube into rockwork or sand at 24-26C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.1-8.4. Because it is a filter feeder, it needs a supply of live phytoplankton and fine particulate foods to thrive long-term; sterile tanks lead to slow starvation. It is fully reef-safe and peaceful. Occasional crown shedding and regrowth is normal under stress or during renewal.
Frequently asked questions
How active is a Feather Duster Worm?
Low. A calm, unhurried swimmer โ peaceful surroundings suit them best.
How much maintenance does a Feather Duster Worm need?
Routine tank care. Weekly partial water changes keep them in top shape.
What tank size does a Feather Duster Worm need?
Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.
Is a Feather Duster Worm a good fit for first-time owners?
Great first pet. Forgiving and easy to get started with.
How long do Feather Duster Worm live?
2โ5 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Feather Duster Worm?
Keep an eye out for Nutritional deficiency, Dehydration, Parasites. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
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