Cocoa Red Worm

[sdieringer]

My red worm head has not apperad in 3 weeks, it has been in my tank for 5 months. This is the 3rd time it has seem to disapear. When i think i should remove it it reapears (thikfully) When it reapears it one small head and grows up to 3 heads. That will last for about 3 weeks then disappere again. Is this normal

 

[NicoleC]

It's starving, and yes, it's unfortunately quite normal - not good, but normal.

Most filter feeding worms die of starvation in captivity - they are very particular about the size of what they eat. But sadly there are very few studies on the subject linking particular species to particular particle sizes... Or even effective ways to determine the species of your specimen.

They are, for the moment, best not attempted in captivity except in large, mature tanks that are heavily fed various micro foods. And then it's dicey.

The tiny fan worm colonies that grow on rock spontaneously - either white or red - are a good way to enjoy these kinds of beautiful worms. Either they are less picky, or the average tank provides the right food.

You could attempt to save this one by feeding a mix of phytoplankton and/or tiny foods like oyster eggs.

 

[chefmur]

I have been very succesful using a homemade coral food for both my cocoa worm and christmas tree rocks which I have kept succesfully for a couple of years. All of these have wonderful color and are very healthy. If you are interested email me and I will give you the recipe.

 

[casper5096]

This link will give you info on how to feed them.

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1071652:

 

[sdieringer]

Thanks all for the info, hopfully i can save it, Started adding marine snow on sunday, after reading the link i'll start target feeding at the base of the worm.