Protula bispiralis

Datasheet

General Description

The Hard Tube Coco Worm, also referred to as the Hard Tube Feather Duster, Protula Tubeworm, or Hard Tubeworm, displays a crown that comes in varying colors such as white, yellow, orange, pink, or red. These worms have distinct features, with younger individuals having bi-lobed crowns, while older ones showcase spiraled crowns. They secrete a calcareous tube to protect their worm bodies, with the tubes usually anchored in rocky reef crevices or gravel along reef slopes. When threatened, they can retract their crowns and seal their tubes with an operculum.

Aquarium Suitability

Designated as "Expert Only," the Hard Tube Coco Worm necessitates a well-established aquarium with rock and gravel substrates. It thrives in environments with sufficient calcium and alkalinity levels for growth. This species is highly sensitive to water quality issues and should not be exposed to copper-based medications. Regular supplements of phytoplankton and liquid organic foods are essential for their maintenance.

Care and Hardiness

The Hard Tube Coco Worm requires meticulous care, making it suitable only for experienced aquarists. It demands a stable environment with appropriate calcium and alkalinity levels to ensure its well-being. These worms are exceedingly intolerant of poor water conditions, necessitating diligent attention to water quality maintenance.

Reef Suitability

Reef-compatible, the Hard Tube Coco Worm can be a valuable addition to reef aquariums, contributing to the ecosystem with its filter-feeding behavior. Their placement in crevices and along gravel slopes mimics their natural habitat, enhancing the overall reef setup.

Aquarium Setup

To accommodate Hard Tube Coco Worms, a tank should have a low to medium water flow, along with recommended water parameters including a pH of 8.1-8.4, alkalinity of 8-12 dKH, and specific gravity between 1.023-1.025. The presence of suitable supplements such as calcium, magnesium, strontium, and trace elements is crucial for their growth and longevity.

Behaviour

Characterized as peaceful, these worms are filter feeders that utilize their radioles to capture plankton from the water column. They exhibit retracting behaviors when disturbed, showcasing their adaptability to environmental stimuli.

Feeding and Diet

As filter feeders, Hard Tube Coco Worms rely on capturing plankton from the water for sustenance. Supplemental feeding with phytoplankton and liquid organic foods is necessary to meet their nutritional requirements in aquarium settings.

Dimorphism

Hard Tube Coco Worms exhibit distinct morphological changes as they age, with younger individuals displaying bi-lobed crowns and older ones featuring spiraled crowns. In captive environments, reproduction can be stimulated under optimal conditions, contributing to the sustainability of populations.

Habitat and Distribution

In the wild, Hard Tube Coco Worms are typically found anchoring their calcareous tubes in rocky reef crevices or gravel along current-swept reef slopes. Their distribution spans suitable marine environments where they can secure themselves and filter feed effectively.