So named because their body is externally ringed and divided into segments. The term "polychaete" from poly (many) and chaeta (bristle like) refers to the many bristle like structures along the sides of the body. The majority of polychaetes have a blood system, a definite head with eyes, and a digestive tract that runs the entire length of the body. When disturbed, feather dusters will quickly draw their gill feathers back into the tube. The tube dwelling polychaetes are the most obvious representatives of the Phylum Annelida in the Philippine reefs. The genus Spirobranchus is usually seen protruding from coral heads or occasionally from coralline rock making a colorful display.. These brightly colored worms pop into their tubes when disturbed or when the water conditions are rough. Another common fan worm is the peacock worm, Sabellastarte.
Phylum Annelida (Segmented Worms)
Class Polychaeta (Polychaetes)
Family Sabellidae (Feather Duster, Calcareous Tube Worms)
Sabellastarte Indica Sp. (Peacock Worm, Fan Worm) Emerges from tubes embedded in coral heads and uses its fan tentacles, which are actually gills, to collect food. (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8)
Bispira Sp. Cannot positively identify. (1)
Family Serpulidae (Feather Duster, Calcareous Tube Worms)
Spirobranchus Giganteus Sp. (Christmas Tree Worm) This species settles on massive corals and secretes a tube that kills the underlying polyps. Tentacles are extremely variable in color: yellow, blue, purple, red, orange, or brown. Intertidal zone to more than 30m depth. (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
*Reference: Philippine Coral Reefs A Natural History Guide By Alan T. White & Coral Reef Animals Of The Indo-Pacific By Terrence M. Gosliner, David W. Beherens, Garry C. Williams
*Photos: Are Full Moon Divers. All Rights Reserved.