Bristle Worms

[jbmaxxx77]

I'm somewhat new to the hobby and have seen several bristle worms in my 55 gal. tank. I have heard both sides of the argument about these guys and was wondering if maybe I should purchase an arrow crab to help control these guys. I've seen some that are in the 3" to 4" range and was wondering how many if any of these dudes are good for the aquarium.Thanks.

 

[capncapo]

The only reason you have bristleworms at all is that there is enough food to keep them alive. What will eat the food the bristleworms are eating if they are gone?

 

[Tennyson]

An arrow crab will eat bristle worms if it comes across one and if it is hungry.I have a Coral Banded Shrimp in a 46 gallon which are also known for eating bristle worms, and there are many bristle worms in the tank, and he has never caught any, Capncapo is right, there is probably too much excess food in the tank that is keeping those Bristle Worms alive. A clean-up crew would help.

 

[Tennyson]

Oh, and big ones that you described are really not good. I have seen only two about that size in my tank, they haven't harmed any of my corals, but I read that they might. Those small ones are OK though, but over an inch would be bad.

 

[stevelkaneval]

bristle worms only breed according too how much food is availible. so dont overfeed and you wont have a problem.

but over an inch would be bad.

i have many over an inch or three inches at that and they have never had a negative affect on my tank. i would like too see where you read that.

bristle worms are great detrivours and a great addition too your cuc. they actually sell them on some sites.