|
| |
|
Nemertean, Proboscis or Ribbon Worm Identification FAQs
Related FAQs: Worm Diversity FAQs,
FAQs 2, FAQs
3, &
Worm IDs 1,
Worm IDs 2, Worm
IDs 3, Worm IDs 4,
Worm IDs 5, Worm
IDs 6, Worm IDs 7,
Worm IDs 8, & Worm ID FAQs by
Group/Phylum:
Flatworm Identification ID,
Nematode, Roundworm ID,
Nematomorpha, Horsehair
Worm ID,
Acanthocephalans, Thorny-headed Worm ID, Polychaete
Identification, Polychaete ID 2,
Tubeworm
ID, Hirudineans, Leech ID,
Sipunculids, Peanut Worm ID,
Echiuran Worm ID,
Related Articles: Worms, Polychaetes,
Flatworms/Planaria,
|
|
Blue Ribbon Worm? 2/1/06
Hi Guys,
<Robin>
Before I ask my question I just want to say, you guys are awesome and
this has got to be the best site in the Web for fish keepers!
<Thank you for your kind words>
In the last 6 months I've gone from keeping single 150g Loach tank to
adding a 75g reef tank to my apartment. Moving slowly, I now have a
handful of
fish, a couple of coral frags (a thick branch pink birds nest and an
amethyst Porites) and recently added some more live rock.
Along with the rock I appear to have a brand new hitchhiker. I caught a
glimpse of him this morning just before lights on. I ran and grabbed the
digital camera and managed to get a couple of good photos of him.
<Very nice>
After searching your site I've come to suspect he may be some sort of
ribbon worm.
<Yes... does appear to be a Nemertean>
But the photos we not terribly clear so I'm not totally sure (feel free
to use any of these photos in the worm ID section if you like).
He's a beautiful navy blue color with a jagged white stripe on his head
and appears to be velvety in texture. If he is a ribbon worm, any idea
what
species he is, if he poses a hazard to anyone else in the tank and what
he eats?
<Can't identify to species... looks like a Notospermus species though...
widely distributed throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific>
He's one cool looking critter, so if he's a harmless I'd like to try and
keep him alive and healthy. Thanks in advance for your help and for such
a fantastic site!
Robin
<I would definitely try to keep this animal about. A beauty. Bob Fenner>
|
|
|
Possible Sea Snake in Reef Tank
Hi Bob,
<Howdy>
I wouldn't bother you if it weren't important to determine whether or not
I have a sea snake in my reef tank. I had to tear down and move
my 72-gallon bow front for a new carpet installation, and in the process
came across what I believe but hope isn't a sea snake protruding from a
rock. I've attached 3 digital pictures I took so you can get a
look. You probably can't see it well in the pictures, but on
the "head" end, there are white diamond-shaped markings all the
way around. I have to tear this tank down again in a couple
days after the carpet is installed and return it to its permanent
location, and needless to say, I'm a bit "tank shy" after
encountering this critter. It didn't come completely out of the
rock, but as you can see in the pictures, it's well over a foot long
without coming all the way out. Also, when it was
"standing," the neck appeared to widen and "flatten
out" as would a Cobra or some type of snake that stands like that.
<Neat... you appear to be the not-so-proud owner of a Ribbonworm
(Phylum Nemertea). Not to worry re... it will not harm you or your
livestock. Please see here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/worms.htm>
Your prompt (or even better - immediate!) response would be greatly
appreciated. I hope to learn this is some harmless animal that
does not need to be removed.
<I would do my best to not disturb the system too much in moving...
drain the water out, move tank, put the water back in. This animals
presence is tribute to your good husbandry. Bob Fenner>
Peggy |
 |
Snake in Reef?!
Bob,
<Peg>
Many thanks for your very prompt response to my e-mail regarding the snake-like
critter in my system. This is one worm I surely was not familiar
with, and am I ever glad he's a worm and nothing worse!! Now I won't
have
the fear of God in me when I tear down again to return the tank to the living
room. I also thank you for the compliment regarding
husbandry. I live for all my gifts from the sea!
<Ahh, a gracious statement>
Thanks again,
<Glad to share. Bob Fenner>
Peggy
Re: Possible Sea Snake in Reef Tank
Hi Bob,
<Hello Peggy, good morrow>
Many thanks for your prompt response. I'm happy to know this
beautiful animal is harmless and also that my husbandry has contributed to its
well-being. They surely have the appearance of a snake when they
stand! I don't look forward to tearing down yet again to move the tank back to
the living room, but one must do what one must do. That will be its
last move for a very long time!
<Do enjoy the process. Bob Fenner>
Thanks again.
Peggy
| |
|
