What is this?

Dr. Peter Venkman

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Hey all, just wanted to ask if anyone knows what this is

Screenshot_20231130-120227.png
 
Bristle/fireworm, those spines on it are venomous and cause irritation, though they are harmless to your reef tank. Just don't touch it
 
Bristle worms are good/harmless detritus feeders and although most find them ugly are nice to have. However, if they get larger/more numerous it's a good sign that you may be overfeeding!

Fire worms are more harmful and can actively hunt live prey.

If you see it all the way out during the day it may be a fire worm as they are active during the day sometimes. Bristle worms are almost always only seen at night.

If you want to get rid of them there are several designs for traps floating around these forums if you do a search but ultimately I'd keep it!

Some other notes, don't pull on it, they are segmented so it will just regrow the lost bits. Obviously do not touch with bare skin of any kind, reactions are different for different folks but it's always going to be irritating at the very least (think fiberglass insulation).
 

IF YOU HAD TO TAKE A REEFING EXAM, WOULD YOU PASS?

  • Yes!

    Votes: 32 45.7%
  • Not yet, but I have one that I want to buy in mind!

    Votes: 9 12.9%
  • No.

    Votes: 26 37.1%
  • Other (please explain).

    Votes: 3 4.3%
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