worm, anenome, or neither?

[sculpin]

I realize that you are on your weekend. I so seldom have time to post anymore that this is unfortunately my only opportunity.

I have had these for approximately 3 years. They have slowly spread throughout my tanks. I am of the opinion that they are a worm but am unsure what. I would appreciate your expert opinion.

Mike

 

[sculpin]

.

 

[Mike_Noren]

Re: worm, anenome, or neither?

I have had these for approximately 3 years. They have slowly spread throughout my tanks. I am of the opinion that they are a worm but am unsure what. I would appreciate your expert opinion.

While waiting for Rons answer... To me that looks like a small burrowing anemone, possibly something along the lines of an Edwardsia.

 

[rshimek]

Hi,

Looks like a Nynanthean anemone to me, but I would need a specimen or two to be certain.

These anemones are often burrowing forms found in sediments. Typically they have 10 to 16 tentacles.

 

[sculpin]

I'd be happy to send you a specimen as they seem to be quite hardy and reproduce willingly in my current system. Assuming you'd like a living specimen, it might be best to wait for warmer weather to send one.

 

[rshimek]

Hi,

I would like to see one. I have expected that some of these animals would show up sooner or later in aquaria, but yours is the first that I know of.

As you note, though, it will definitely be better to wait for warmer weather. We have had about 6 inches of snow and temps in the teens since midnight, and this storm, or its progeny, will likely continue, more-or-less until late March.

 

[sculpin]

If you happen to pass through North Carolina prior to that, you are welcome to stop by to pick up a few specimens. Alternately, if you could remind me again next spring/summer, I will gladly fed ex several to you.

Mike ftp://home.triad.rr.com

 

[rshimek]

Hi Mike,

I will try to remember, come spring.

 

[Cakepro]

I have a boatload of these in my tanks! They sure like to eat.

~ Sherri

 

[rshimek]

Hi,

Most animals DO like to eat. Without doing so, they die....

These particular anemones are quite primitive in structure and some authorities consider that they may be similar to the ancentral anemone in appearance. Such animals (but different species) are reasonably common in many soft sediment ecosystems throughout the world.

 

[kmk2307]

Sculpin, do your anemones look like this:
http://reefcentral.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=161069

Are they "taking over?"

Thanks,
Kevin