Bispira variegata

Datasheet

General Description

Variegated feather duster worms, scientifically known as Bispira variegata, are tube-dwelling sabellid worms belonging to the family Sabellidae. These worms construct tubes using a tough, parchment-like exudate for shelter. They feature a crown of feeding tentacles extending from their tubes, which they use to capture phytoplankton and zooplankton for nourishment. Unlike photosynthetic organisms, variegated feather duster worms rely on target feeding with a blend of plankton for sustenance.

Aquarium Suitability

Variegated feather duster worms are considered suitable for aquariums with care. They are peaceful in temperament and require a minimum tank size of 50 liters. These worms should have their tubes buried in the sediment within the aquarium to create a suitable habitat. Regular target feeding is essential for their well-being, as they may struggle to acquire enough food otherwise. In typical aquarium conditions, providing a mix of phytoplankton and zooplankton is recommended to ensure their nutritional needs are met.

Care and Hardiness

With average hardiness, variegated feather duster worms thrive well when kept in stable water parameters. They prefer water temperatures ranging between 22.2 to 25.6 degrees Celsius, a pH level of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.020-1.025, and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12.

Reef Suitability

These feather duster worms are deemed reef-safe, making them suitable inhabitants for reef aquariums. Their peaceful nature and filter-feeding behavior contribute positively to the reef ecosystem, as they help maintain water quality by consuming planktonic organisms.

Aquarium Setup

In an aquarium setting, it is crucial to provide variegated feather duster worms with a substrate that allows them to bury their tubes securely. Ensuring a well-established tank with stable water parameters, sufficient flow for plankton dispersion, and proper lighting will contribute to their overall health and longevity.

Behaviour

Variegated feather duster worms exhibit a peaceful temperament within aquariums. They are filter feeders, extending their delicate feeding tentacles to capture food particles from the water column. Caution should be exercised to prevent aggressive fish or shrimp species from bothering the worms, as this can lead to stress or injury.

Feeding and Diet

To meet their dietary requirements, variegated feather duster worms should be target-fed a combination of phytoplankton and zooplankton such as Cyclops and pods. Providing a varied diet ensures that these worms receive the necessary nutrients for growth and maintenance of their health.

Dimorphism

While information regarding dimorphism for variegated feather duster worms is not specified, these worms exhibit the ability to regenerate their feeding crown if damaged or lost. Given optimal conditions in the aquarium, the crown typically regrows within a period of one to two months.

Habitat and Distribution

Variegated feather duster worms are commonly found in tropical marine waters, inhabiting shallow reef environments. Their distribution spans regions with appropriate substrate for tube construction and access to planktonic food sources, making them integral components of marine ecosystems.