Worms?

[jwhyne]

Can anyone tell me what this is and what I might do with it? I have only seen one and it just appeared today, though I'm sure it's been around for a while.

[rehnberg]

I think that is a bristleworm. I have some of those in my fuge.

[jwhyne]

I should add it's probably 2 inches long or so.

What do bristleworms do? Bristle?

[Zooid]

Bristleworms are great detrivores. Some people say that when they get extremely large, they will attack polyps and/or fish. I've seen some in my tanks that were 6"+ and have no problems with them at all.

[oscar89]

An arrow crab will eat it.

[rehnberg]

They shouldn't cause any trouble. I love having them in my fuge.

[denverhoss]

If you see one you probably have lots more. They aren't a problem unless you get those spines in your skin.

[Zooid]

Does it feel like fiberglass when it gets into your skin? I've never gotten the spines in me even though I touch them all the time when I prune my Chaeto. They love to hang out in my Chaeto for some reason.

[jonthefb]

yeah it does feel like fiberglass splinters when you get the bristles stuck to you. Duct tape work really well to remove them!

cheers~!
jon

[26bowfront]

It is pretty irritating when you get hit by one at first, it's one of those things where each person reacts different, I've seen people swell up and others have nothing happen, after being stung quite a few times i don't even notice anymore, just make sure you pull the hairs out with tape or something if you do get stung.

[jwhyne]

Cool. Thanks everyone for the responses.

[CHARLIE AGUILAR]

That good to know Jon was not aware of that!