new store bought featherduster

[megatsea]

My son just came home with a typical looking featherduster from our local pet store as a gift . It is a 4 inch tube plus the crown is the size of a plum when opened. I acclimated, and did transfer but it was out in the air for 5 seconds....it is fully opened(night time now-no lights) and slightly swaying with the current .
I have many mini tunicates and featherdusters that have appeared over the years in my tank . I now wonder if I need to target feed this guy as it is so large....and also will my serpent star nible at it? I have placed the duster between 2 rocks....any suggestions?
M

 

[joe 09]

feather dusters are filter feeders,(takes nutrients from the water).i feed mine kent marine phytoplex.they will move around until they find a good spot.

 

[tk1360]

as mentioned they are filter feeders. Personally I have never specifically fed my featherdusters yet they continue to grow.

 

[cdangel0]

I've never been able to get mine to stay open to try direct feeding. As soon as I press on the turkey baster the puff of water causes the FD to panic and retract in to the tube.

 

[megatsea]

Thanks for the response. My little ones never moved around. It will be interesting to see where this guy ends up. Never thought I would want one that size, but it is pretty.
Thanks again everyone.
Meg

 

[rustybucket145]

let him find his own spot. He might camp out where you put him but chances are that he will move a little and bury himself somewhere secure and with good flow. I wouldn't target feed him, like others said he will likely retract whenever he sees you enter the tank.

Maybe start dosing phyto if you don't already, other than that if your tank's healthy it should have everything it needs.

 

[Travis L. Stevens]

You might want to read this: http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1071652

 

[jer77]

I know that they are filter feeders, but is it ok if you don't feed them? I haven't fed mine for 3 years and he seems to be doing fine. Plus he is a Sabellastarte sp. or giant hawaiian fan worm. The tank however is not so nutrient poor like my other tanks.