another "what is it!"

[Brighteyes_13]

ive been looking on WWM to get an idea, from this site here (http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2003-03/rs/index.php) it shows quite a different head then what i have seen on this worm... are there other species with different heads?

the one in the picture has a disc like head with visible eyes at the back of it, it has no antanae

[Joe Reefer]

Third sentence in: "This group of animals is diverse, with over 10,000 species known, and undoubtedly many thousands of species are remaining to be discovered and scientifically described."

[untamed]

I'm guessing that it is a Eunicid family worm. Many people refer to these as bristle worms, although they are quite different than the traditional bristle worms that we all have.

Distinquishing characteristics of the Eunicid family are 5 distinct "antennae" surrounding the head/mouth. They also typically retreat into rockwork with lightning speed when disturbed. Yes...centipede like legs.

While some Eunicids can grow to enormous length and are the stuff of Aquarium lore (Oregon Reef Eunicid over 7 feet long...), others are harmless detritus feeders. Keep you eye on it and see what it eats.

Here's one of my favorite photos of "Max" who lived in my 30 gallon hex for 5+ years and was probably over 2 feet long. He was strictly vegatarian.


Oh yes..I forgot...really nasty jaws that they use to grab and retreat.