Theres a bristol worm living in frogspawn head

ashley · #1 03-20-2011, 06:41 PM

I got a frag of branching frogspawn a few weeks ago and I noticed that one head looked dead on one half and alive on the other half. I didn't think too much of it because maybe it was damaged in the move. But the dead half still had tiny shriveled up tenticles (I guess thats what you call them?) in a small spot so maybe it would come back.
So far it hasn't, they are still there but tiny and shriveled. But then I noticed there is a very small bristol worm living in that side of the head. I've seen it come out to look for food then retreat right back into the head. Could that be why the coral appears dead on that side? I've tried removing the worm but theres no way to grab it, its pretty small and quick.
Anyone have any ideas on how to get it out of there without hurting the coral?

skabooya · #2 03-20-2011, 06:58 PM

Its not dead its just angry. My coral was like that when disturbed for a long time. I would suggest a FW dip. It kills/releases bristle worms pretty darn fast. Have a toothpick ready to help probe it out of that head just in case it wont let go. Just a fast dip is all it will need, about 20 seconds.
I would see first if FW will hurt your frogspawn. I dont think it will but im not positive. I hope someone chimes in on that.

ashley · #3 03-21-2011, 02:02 AM

Ok thanks. I was thinking the same thing, but I was nervous to try incase FW dip would hurt the frogspawn. I've even tried sucking it out with my siphon but it gets it there pretty good.

Navarchus · #4 03-21-2011, 04:13 AM

Bristle worms can be found in any cracks and holes. Usually they don’t bother any livestock buy may feast on dead or dying animals.

if you can post a pic of the coral it will help me estimate its condition and recommend you what can be done.

ashley · #5 03-21-2011, 05:23 PM

Ok heres some pics

You can see theres not much left at all on the right, but the left side has a good bunch. Usually as the day goes on the right side does come out a bit more, but its still very stringy and pitifull looking.

And the worm in question. Its pretty red, could it possibly be a fireworm? (its in the center)

hillegom · #6 03-21-2011, 06:39 PM

not a fireworm. The one you have is red and dark brown as well.
Just an ordinary bristleworm IMO Beneficial when small. I would leave it. You have lots more you cannot see. Look into the tank at night with a flashlight with red cellophane over the lens. Be surprised at what you see.