Description
Protula bispiralis, commonly called a red fanworm or mopworm, is a marine polychaete worm. It's known for its distinctive, feathery branchial crown (the "fan" or "mop") and its calcareous tube. The worm lives within this tube, secretes it, and can attach it to hard surfaces like rocks or coral reefs.
More details about Protula bispiralis:
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Size:
The worm itself can reach 6-10 cm in length, and the branchial crown can be up to 20 cm wide when fully extended.
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Branchial Crown:
The crown is made of white radioles (feathery branches) and has a base that can be red to pink.
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Tube:
The calcareous tube is white and can have a diameter of up to 1 cm.
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Habitat:
Protula bispiralis inhabits shallow waters, typically 3-10 meters deep, often attaching to hard surfaces or under rocks.
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Feeding:
It's a filter feeder, capturing small plankton and organic particles in the water column.
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Sensitivity:
The worm is sensitive to movement and will retract into its tube when disturbed
