Phyllochaetopterus sp.

False Spaghetti Worm

Note: Commonly mistaken for the Thread Worm or Spaghetti Worm, which has numerous thread-like filaments/tentacles. However, this creature has only two thread-like filaments/tentacles/legs, which are used to push water through a net-like structure that filters out suspended matter. These worms are generally up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length including the two tentacles (palps). They are thought to be in the Genus Phyllochaetopterus and conceal themselves in parchment-like tubes and are generally found in sand or rock crevices. Their body remains hidden inside its tube, yet these two thread-like filaments are quite visible. They are basically harmless suspension feeders and actually a valuable addition to any aquarium.

Shown here for identification.

Taxonomy:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Annelida

Class: Polychaeta

Order: Spionida

Family: Chaetopteridae

Genus: Phyllochaetopterus