Reef safe worm?

[TechLobster]

Hi all,

 

Just picked up a new emerald crab from the lfs, and he came on a rock. Noticed a pink-orange worm in with him while he was acclimating. He shot back into the piece of rock quick when I went to get a better look. I've got him in a separate quarentine for the time being. And watching him for a bit I'd estimate it's 3-4" long, 1/4" around, pinkish orange with white fluffy bristles. He's more colored that the photo, but this is the best shot I could get.

 

Any help is appreciated.

 

 

[vegasgundog]

Bristle. Most will say harmless detritus scavenger. But creepy as hell.

[TechLobster]

I've read mixed opinions on how reef safe fire vs bristle worms are and if they are even two different classifications. Are all (or at least most common ones we see reefing) reef safe?

[vegasgundog]

Bristles are by far from what I've seen the common. Never seen a fire worm. My six line wrasse must keep them in check as I rarely see them any more. They are nocturnal and you really won't find them unless you start moving things around. I've never seen any issues with them.

[TechLobster]

Cool, I'll keep him on his own for a bit, while I decide if I want to keep him. I think I also got a baby brittle starfish in the same small chunk of live rock.

[vegasgundog]

I had an awesome amount of brittle stars. I really havnt seen any lately.....

Makes me want to go dig around for some....

[RayWhisperer]

It's a bristle worm, and it's harmless. They don't have mouth parts capable of killing, unless you think they could lick something to death.